People are often uncomfortable when their elderly loved ones start dating, but why? We all deserve love and yearn for companionship. So when elderly romance blossoms in an assisted living home, it may seem strange at first, but when we take the time to think about it, it’s natural, healthy, and really, we should be happy for them. Here are some thoughts on how to cope with your elderly loved one’s new relationship, and some benefits of this budding love.
Elderly Romance Can Provide You Comfort
Let’s start by discussing some of the benefits of an elderly romance. When an older adult finds someone special they now have a partner in crime, someone to lean on, and are now wrapped in their very own security blanket. They have someone to bounce their ideas off of and someone to share their worries and hopes with. The new love is someone to smile and laugh with. Everyone wants someone to keep them company and make them feel important… even the elderly… especially the elderly. Try not to feel uncomfortable when your loved one sparks up an elderly romance but instead appreciate that someone else is looking out for your loved one.
Elderly Romance Can Help Lighten Your Load
Once you get past the initial shock that a new “stranger” is playing an important role in your loved one’s life, try to look on the bright side. Are you able to be there at the assisted living home day in and day out? Well, this new companion is always there. Are you the same age and able to share similar stories about all the different phases of their life and all the decades they’ve lived through? This new beau might just be able to connect with your special someone in a way you’re simply unable to. They may be able commiserate together about the loss of a spouse, getting old, how the world has changed, ailments and pains, etc. They are also probably really enjoying having someone to tell all their favorite stories about all their favorite people to. Who doesn’t want someone who will listen when they brag about their kids and grandkids? Through this new reason to tell stories, your loved one may actually feel closer to you.
Elderly Romance Can Be Healthy
There can even be some health benefits to elderly romance. Just like for young love, this can really add a spring in your loved one’s step. Having someone to go outside and go on a walk with will inevitably entice your loved one to do just that. They’ll start getting more fresh air and more exercise. Having someone to talk to and play games with can also help keep the mind sharp. This can really give your loved one a new lease on life. Having a partner can mean one less thing they worry about or are sad about, and, provide one more person to look out for them and to spend time with.
Elderly Romance Can Teach You Something
When your loved one finds romance in the assisted living facility, don’t be so quick to judge. Sure, just like your parents were skeptical about your boyfriends or girlfriends when you first brought them home you may feel the same way. But just like how you wanted your parents to trust you and give your beau a chance, it’s time for you to trust them and give their romance a chance. Set up a time to meet this new partner. Get to know them, so you know who your loved one is spending their time with. Make your loved one feel like you approve and help make their partner feel accepted. These are all the things you wanted from them when you were younger.
Do you remember ever asking “can’t you just be happy for me?” It’s your turn now. As different as it is for you, you should be happy for them. This may or may not be the greatest love of their life. It may just be a companion for this last chapter of their life. Either way, everyone, no matter how old, deserves love and happiness.