Age Difference in Relationships: Does it Matter?

Considering a relationship with someone quite a bit younger or older can bring a variety of emotions to the surface. There are several questions that come to mind and people often worry what others will think of them. The individual may second guess his decision to enter or continue a relationship with a partner outside of his own age group. As with any relationship, there are factors to consider.

Every relationship has positive and negative aspects. The only variance in an age difference relationship is overcoming the number gap. Family members may be unhappy and friends may make jokes but ultimately the two people in the relationship have to decide whether their love is strong enough to endure.

A relationship that consists of a younger man and an older woman may face challenges from the female herself. If she lacks confidence or feels subconscious about her age or appearance, she may be her own worst enemies. She may become more self-conscious further into the relationship as she ages more. If she is past her child-bearing years, she may feel guilty that she cannot provide her younger partner with children, even if he says he doesn't want any. She may believe he is just telling her he doesn't want children because he knows she can't have any. She may also feel that he may change his mind at some time in the future and leave her for someone else. Most older women that are involved with younger partners fear they will someday leave them for younger, more attractive women.

Relationships that consist of older men and younger women are also scrutinized. People may gossip and accuse a young woman of being with an older man for his money. They couple may hear rude comments about "robbing the cradle" or "having one foot in the grave." Even well-meaning friends can make insensitive comments at times. The couple may also worry about the older partner's mortality, especially when the partner is several years older.

One of the most important factors in a relationship is common ground. This is often the way relationships begin and continue to grow. Two individuals find that they share a passion that gives them common ground to build their relationship. People of any age can find interests that draw them together. Being with people outside of our own age group can provide a learning experience. Individuals can grow to respect and have an appreciation for people outside their own age group.

There are many positive aspects to an age difference relationship. The two individuals can complement and balance each other. A younger partner can make an older partner feel young again. Being with someone young and vibrant can help an older person learn to take better care of his body and health. A loving relationship can be uplifting and encouraging. Being with an older partner can provide a younger person with a unique insight into the older generation and help her to grow into the relationship. It can provide her with stability. Many older people remain active and vibrant well into their later years. Love doesn't know boundaries. It just is.

People in a relationship with a great age difference may experience insensitive comments and jokes but a strong relationship will overcome the negativity. It doesn't matter what other people think of the relationship. Love can be difficult to find so if it comes in the form of someone 10 years younger or 20 years older, be grateful that it found you. You're never too old to experience the joys of love.