Relationships in Old Age
A relationship is the connection of two or more individuals or objects that interact and behave in a way that is specific to them and to each other. In life, we all develop relationships, which can be positive, negative, or even neutral. When one mentions the word ‘relationships’, the mind may wander to many different types of relationships. For example, there are intimate relationships, familial relationships, social relationships, and even some type of relationship with an acquaintance.
As an individual grows older, relationships change as life brings about different challenges and changes. Roles may change, health (both physical and mental) may change, and even certain losses can impact and influence an older adult’s life, leading to a change in their different relationships.
The Importance of Relationships in Old Age
Therefore, building on the above, it is essential that as professionals, as family members and as friends or loved ones of older adults, we continue the conversation about the importance of relationships in old age, even the ‘sensitive ones’ like intimacy amongst older adults. We all have an innate desire and need for intimacy, which can be sexual or just developing a feeling of connectedness and trust. A positive and successful intimate relationship helps create a sense of closeness, which allows the older adult to feel dignified and valued, essential characteristics of old age mental health. This feeling of closeness can be present at different levels, such as at a physical (or sexual) level, an intellectual level, and an emotional level, which are all equally as important.
Why shouldn’t older adults have an intimate physical connection, for example, with their loved ones – just because they are older? This is something we often hear in a social setting. A romantic relationship in old age has been found to have positive health impacts, such as lower blood pressure and stress levels, as well as fending off the possibility of loneliness. A romantic connection is also identified with older adults’ higher self-worth and value.
In conclusion, relationships are an essential part of old age. In future blogs, we will continue the different types of relationships older adults may have or need.
If you think you can benefit from professional support on this issue, you can reach out here.
Yaser Teebi works as a Clinical Psychologist and Gerontologist at Willingness. He works with a variety of complex issues and adult age groups, including chronic pain, mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, trauma, loss, grief and bereavement, relationships and cognitive impairment. Yaser Teebi has graduated from the following degrees with Merit: Bachelor of Psychology (Hons), a Master of Gerontology and Geriatrics, and a Master of Psychology in Clinical Psychology, all at the University of Malta. He is currently reading for a PhD in Clinical Psychology and Geriatrics at the University of Birmingham.
