The word "affection" refers to an emotional connection between people that is felt and expressed through physical touch and gestures. In older couples, affection can be difficult to sustain due to factors such as illness, death of loved ones, loss of interests, reduced energy levels, and less time for intimate activities.
There are strategies to keep desire alive and maintain a strong bond even in later years.
Make it a habit to show affection daily. Hold hands while walking, hug when greeting each other, give kisses goodnight, share laughter, cuddle during movies, hold hands at restaurants, and always say I love you before saying goodbye. These small acts build up over time and create a powerful foundation of love and comfort.
Continue to pursue shared interests. As they age, couples may lose interest in activities they once enjoyed together or become too tired to do them. But finding new hobbies, visiting places they haven't been to before, trying new foods, or learning new skills can bring excitement back into their lives. They should also avoid arguments about politics or religion and focus on what matters most: spending quality time together.
Talk about their feelings openly. Older couples often find it harder to express themselves emotionally than younger ones. Talking about their fears, anxieties, hopes, dreams, and regrets helps them feel closer and builds trust. Listening carefully and being understanding can strengthen the relationship by showing support and appreciation for each other.
Fourth, set aside time for romance. Date nights, weekend getaways, and adventurous trips can reignite passion and spark new ideas for intimacy. It doesn't have to be expensive - just finding time alone away from family and work can help them reconnect and remember why they fell in love in the first place.
Keep physical touch alive. Even if they don't feel as energetic as before, older couples can still enjoy slow dancing, massages, cuddling, kisses, and sex. Sexual desire decreases with age but doesn't disappear entirely. Being physically active, eating well, getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, and taking supplements like testosterone and estrogen may boost libido.
How do habits of affection preserve desire in aging couples?
Although there are many factors that can contribute to the preservation of desire in aging couples, research has shown that shared habits of affection play an important role in maintaining intimacy and sexual satisfaction throughout the years. These habits may include physical touch such as holding hands, cuddling, and kissing, as well as verbal expressions of love and appreciation.