The Best Marriage Advice Seniors Say Still Matters Today
Some of the best marriage advice comes from couples who have been together for decades. Senior relationships can be very strong because not only have they simply stood the test of time, but they have no doubt navigated many complex situations and tests on their relationship.
How can seniors in Kalamazoo, MI, pursue and maintain long-term relationships and marriage? Here are some key insights into some of the most prevalent marriage problems, as well as what to prioritize if you desire a successful, lasting partnership.
What Are the Top Three Marriage Problems?
The top three marriage problems include financial woes, as well as a lack of communication. A third major issue is one or both partners not putting in the emotional labor required to keep the marriage alive and thriving.
What Are the Seven Keys to a Successful Marriage?
So, how can you ensure that your marriage remains successful as you age with your partner? Here are seven strategies to work on, starting now.
1. Open and Frequent Communication
Lack of communication is the downfall of many relationships. Simply expressing what you need isn't enough; you need to communicate thoughtfully and clearly to get your point across. Your partner cannot read your mind, and when you expect them to, you place unrealistic expectations on them and your marriage.
2. Platonic Love
Romantic love is an incredibly important part of any relationship, but being friends with your partner is what can make or break your bond. If you do not like hanging out with your partner, loving them will be even more difficult.
3. Find Help for Emotional Issues
If you find yourself with unresolved problems within your marriage, do not wait for them to fester until they are unsolvable. Reach out to a professional for help, such as a therapist. Many therapists specialize in couples counseling and may even have experience with senior relationships similar to yours.
4. Keep the Romance Alive
When was the last time you took your partner out on a date? How often do you exchange simple romance gestures, like pecking one another on the lips or cuddling on the couch while watching a movie?
These actions may seem simple, but they can have a huge impact on the overall stability of your relationship. Remind your partner every single day why you fell in love with them in the first place.
5. Put Each Other First
With conflicting needs and priorities, it may seem difficult to ensure that your spouse is at the top of the ticket in terms of who you need to address. Always ensure that your spouse feels cared about. Take your spouse's side in a conflict to avoid further drama.
6. Address Conflict Quickly
Letting conflict and hatred fester can be the death knell of a relationship. Address conflicts right away, and make sure to tell your partner how you feel, encouraging them to do the same.
7. Continually Nurture the Relationship
Relationships take work, and it is not often that two people fall in love without any challenges or hangups. The older you get, the more likely you are to face struggles as a couple, and you need to consistently nurture your relationship as you navigate tough times. Remember, work as a team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Long-Term Relationships Thrive in Assisted Living?
Absolutely. Assisted living represents a wonderful opportunity for marriages to grow and strengthen. When you do not have to worry about tasks such as cleaning and household maintenance, you can devote more time to investing in your marriage.
Access to staff members can alleviate some of the burden of caretaking as well. Caring for your spouse can be difficult to manage, whether they are embarrassed about the prospect or you have health problems of your own that make it challenging.
Downsizing can also ease some of the challenges. Navigating and maintaining a cluttered home is difficult as you age, but with a streamlined floor plan, it will be easier to keep your items organized and work with a smaller amount of space.
How Can Connection in Aging Continue in Love After 70?
Do you ever wonder if you can still find new connections after the age of 70? The answer is a resounding yes. As you age, your interests evolve. You can even discover new hobbies that you may not have known to explore.
Consider perusing your local senior center or taking a look at the activity calendar. Try something you have never done before, or you have been wanting to begin. It can't hurt to dip your toes into the water.
How Does Assisted Living Support Emotional Health for Older Adults?
Assisted living can do wonders for your emotional health as you move into your later years. Much of assisted living involves caretakers handling your everyday needs, so you do not have to. This frees up time and energy for you to work on your emotional and mental health, which can, in turn, radiate positivity to every other area of your life.
Communities such as LakeHouse Kalamazoo offer plenty of programs to boost mental wellness and help our residents enjoy their senior years. By emphasizing the health needs of older folks, we ensure that our residents thrive.
Senior Couple Wisdom: Learn More of the Best Marriage Advice at LakeHouse Kalamazoo
The best marriage advice for seniors often involves ways to maintain the strength of the relationship into your golden years. With this guide to senior couple wisdom, you can talk to your loved one and form a plan to ensure that your marriage stays happy and healthy in retirement.
At LakeHouse Kalamazoo, our dedicated staff members work tirelessly to cultivate an enriching environment for our assisted living residents. With special benefits for veterans and amenities such as wellness and recreational programs, you'll never have a dull day living at LakeHouse Kalamazoo.
Are you ready to see it all for yourself? Reach out to us today to learn more about our beautiful community, or visit us in person in Kalamazoo, MI, to take it all in. We can't wait to meet you!