Need for intimacy does not diminish as we grow older. Whether romantic or platonic, maintaining close relationships helps older adults experience greater vitality, a sense of belonging, and deeper meaning in life. There are also many health benefits that come with maintaining healthy intimacy during one’s golden years.

Benefits of Intimate Relationships for Older Adults

• Lower stress, greater resilience
• Better recovery following surgery
• Protection against depression and anxiety
• Lower resting blood pressure
• Enhanced feelings of self-worth and meaning
• Overall better health (e.g., less frequent illness)
• Longer lifespan

Ways Older Adults Can Enhance Intimate Relationships

Whether it’s the closeness between two friends or sparking romance, there are some very simple ways to older adults can enhance their intimate relationships.

Free from the obligations of work and raising a family, older adulthood can be a time to celebrate independence. Let’s explore essential tips to help you (or a loved one) maintain—and celebrate independence in older adulthood.

For some people, the ‘golden years’ present the opportunity to take life at as fast or slow of a pace as one desires. It can be a time to explore hobbies, travel to exciting destinations, rekindle or create new friendships, and spend quality time with beloved family. Maintaining independence throughout older adulthood does take some focus and effort, if one is to stay physically able-bodied and mentally sharp.

Tips for Supporting Older Adult Independence

Older adults can celebrate Valentine’s Day and American Heart Month by treating their senior sweetie to a heart-healthy treat: Dark chocolate. 

More than just an indulgence, nutrients found in dark chocolate can support cardiovascular health, which is important for aging adults. But not just any ole’ dark chocolate; you want to indulge in dark chocolate with a high cacao content. What’s so special about cacao? Glad you asked! 

Cacao: Raw Chocolate, Food of the Gods!