Whenever we talk of age difference in relationships, we are reminded of the celebrity couple Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher. Looking at their successful relationship, in spite of the vast age gap, makes us wonder if it really matters.
Well, the answer really depends upon the foundation of the relationship. Age difference is not much of an issue if the intentions of both the partners while entering the relationship are honest. If an older man is seeking a young woman just to re-assure himself that he is still sexually appealing or if a younger man is dating an older woman just because it's his way of seeking security, then the relationship is doomed from the very beginning. However, if the relationship is based on similar interests and values, with a strong chemistry, then it is bound to stand the tests of time, despite the age gap.
In fact, age differences can sometimes have a positive impact on both the partners. Often times it is seen that a younger partner brings oodles of energy and spark into the life of the older partner. At the same time, the older partner provides the younger partner with the much-needed emotional stability. On the flip side, it can be very challenging especially in social situations, where both the partners find it very difficult to adjust with each other's friends and family. So for all those people who are worried about this issue, here is some useful relationship advice.
Dealing with Age Difference in Relationships
The first thing that you should do is to remember the adage,"Age is just a number", and follow it. If you have a younger partner, do not brag about it to your friends or family. Even while talking to your partner refrain from acting as a parent. You are a partner so you should act like one. In case the partner is older, do the same i.e behave as an equal.
For older women dating younger men, a large difference in age, can create a lot of insecurities. An older woman might be always concerned that a younger woman will steal her man. And if the woman is younger and the man older, the man might experience the same feelings. This can create a lot of self-esteem issues. In cases like these, the right thing to do would be to have a talk with your partner and re-assure them through your actions and words, from time to time, about your love for them.
Another relationship issue that couples with age differences face is the dissimilarity in tastes with regards to music, movies or television. The older partner might be interested in reading a book or watching TV staying indoors. On the other hand, the younger partner could be always up for outdoor activities such as going to a disc or playing some sports. In such situations the couples should not bring up generational gap issues, because such differences are found in same-age partners as well. The right thing to do in such a situation would be to go in for activities that one of the partners likes on one weekend and go by the other one's choice the next weekend.
Just like any other normal, healthy relationship, a relationship with a considerable age gap between partners requires a lot of commitment from both of them. There will always be people, be it friends or family who will have something or the other to say about the acceptable age and may even pressurize you to re-think. Standing by your partner in such circumstances, and keeping in mind that compatibility is much more important than a number, will help you to make your relationship work. Someone has rightly said,"Age is strictly a case of mind over matter. If you don't mind, it doesn't matter."
