True love, as people from all walks of life have discovered, knows no age limits, though advancing years may change what is considered the most important aspect of this multifaceted emotion that has given rise to literary out-pourings, artistic expression, and cinematic gems. Companionship and compatibility take centre stage as priorities shift with age. Late-life relationships transcend superficial attractions and are characterised by an intimate connection enhanced by respect for one another and common experiences. Compatible relationships provide security and acceptance, a safe haven from which to embrace vulnerabilities and strengths, face life’s challenges, and savour its joys for those who previously had to navigate complexity.
EXPERT SPEAK
Re-partnering or late-life relationships are becoming more prevalent and acceptable worldwide, including in India. Relationships between older adults who are still functionally independent are more prevalent in societies with individualistic values, according to counsellor Kanakadurga K. “The younger generation favours to start committed relationships later in life. They prioritise developing their independence, self-reliance, and successful careers over travelling the world and living independently in their 20s. Making lifelong commitments happens much later in life, even though they may have relationships during this time,” she observes. “With the changes in social setups, older individuals, who have remained single by choice, lost a partner, or gone through a divorce, are also not hesitating to give love a second chance. While relationships at a younger age are driven by needs such as raising a family, late-life relationships have been found to be motivated by the need for love and companionship, and the desire to enjoy life to the fullest for as long as possible,” Kanakadurga adds.
STARS SPEAK
From Hollywood to Bollywood and Tollywood, many stars have been fulfilled in love in later life. Celebrities like Saif Ali Khan, Sanjay Dutt, Neena Gupta, Malaika Arora, Urmila Matondkar, Nagarjuna Akkineni, Prakash Raj and Ashish Vidyarthi are among those who have found compatible partners when they were past the giddy days of youth. Some celebrities share with us the transformative power of second chances at love, defying the barrier of age.
‘FINDING THE RIGHT PATH MAY INVOLVE CROSSING SOME HURDLES'
In today’s world, marital issues affect over 50% of couples, but the good news is that people are open to giving life more chances. With nuclear families becoming the norm, staying together is getting challenging, and many couples prefer their independence. Late marriages are on the rise, driven by career goals and health considerations, and even doctors support this shift. Society has become materialistic, but it’s all part of evolution – from black and white to colour, glam, and glitter. Everyone is human, and men, in particular, tend to mature later in life. Finding the right path may involve crossing some hurdles, but ultimately, it’s about seeking peace, contentment, and happiness. Every couple experiences highs and lows, joys and sorrows. With each passing year, we gain valuable experience that make us better equipped to navigate life’s challenges more meaningfully. Embracing the journey, embracing the experiences, and finding contentment is key to living life to the fullest”
— NARESH VIJAYA KRISHNA, actor
