5 Habits of Successful, Older Couples - Marriage and Love Advice Dr. P... Love & Sex
5 Habits of Successful Couples
How to love and cherish each other through the years
We all know couples who've been married for 30, 40, 50 years or more — and who seem as genuinely happy as they were when they were newlyweds. Quiz:
Donna Day/Big Cheese Photo/Corbis Displays of affection are important to a successful relationship. I get such pleasure out of seeing these lovebirds, and I observe closely to see what traits and behaviors might be the key to their relationship success. Over the years, I've concluded that these are the five habits of : 1. They keep up with the changes. Lillian Hellman once said, "People change and forget to tell each other." When it comes to marriage, that can be risky. The most successful couples really take note of each other's changes. They do not assume their partner is the same person he or she was 20 years ago, even if there are many similarities. What's more, they take the time to learn their partner's goals, dreams and future plans. By keeping in touch with who their partner is at this moment — and looking ahead to who he might become — they . Related
2. They know how to fight fairly. It's not that happy couples never argue. Most couples have disagreements. But in a mature relationship, power isn't defined by winning an argument or getting one's way. True power comes from knowing how to discuss differences fully and honestly. If you demean your partner when you disagree, and if, at the end of an argument, you do not feel stronger and more intimate than you did before you started — you are not building a stronger, more loving relationship. know how to argue with class and dignity. They may disagree, but in the end, they end up understanding — and respecting — their differences. 3. They find new ways to play. All the research on marital satisfaction shows that couples bond more closely when they do new, innovative activities — instead of getting stuck in the same rut they've been in for the past 25 years. Whether it is learning how to sculpt together, opening an inn, , or simply helping each other create a healthier lifestyle, any kind of new, enjoyable pursuit can make a couple that feel younger and more in sync — and can invigorate their love. Related
4. They accept the challenges of aging. In good relationships, partners accept that vulnerability comes with the years. They take care of one another as they deal with physical challenges of aging and feelings of mortality. They share their thoughts on what lies ahead, and they have a rock solid belief that their partner will be there for them no matter what happens. The mature partners who face the future as true collaborators and helpmates forge an . 5. They stay physically connected. and attraction never go out of style — and neither does sex. Older couples who still touch, kiss, snuggle and, yes, are the complete package. Granted, things change: Illness, medication and life crises might get in the way of the kind of passionate romance you had 40 years ago. But the happiest couples are those who have found a way to and maintain a physically satisfying and sensual relationship. It's an essential component to keeping the connection alive and strong. You may also like: Cancel You are leaving AARP.org and going to the website of our trusted provider. The provider’s terms, conditions and policies apply. Please return to AARP.org to learn more about other benefits. Your email address is now confirmed. You'll start receiving the latest news, benefits, events, and programs related to AARP's mission to empower people to choose how they live as they age. You can also by updating your account at anytime. You will be asked to register or log in. Cancel Offer Details Disclosures
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