Age Gap

[JamesP]

There is a saying that "Age Doesn't Matter"!

How do you view dating with wide age gaps? I know that love doesn't always to be in accordance with good appearance, stature in society, or even age. But for me, it seems like awkward seeing two persons (that could be a grandpa-granddaughter relationship already) kissing each other. What is your opinion?

[Sarah]

I don't always understand it, but I have a good friend who got married when she was in her early 60s to someone who was 16 years older than her! I don't really like him, but I don't think that's because of his age.

[Sara]

I don't think it matters if the people have common interests and values. The problems they would usually run into is when the interests are varied because of the age differences I think.

[JamesP]

Sara, I think you are right, common interests and values are the things that keeps relationship in good terms.

I just can't get out of my mind when I see couples like this that the younger is just after something from the older.

[Sadie]

My step mom is 20 years younger than my dad. They have been together for about 20 years and they're doing quite well, but I am starting to notice a shift in interests. My dad is 71 and he is a very active 71. Most people who meet him for the first time guess that is in his late 50s. That said, he likes to do what he likes to do and I think they kind of go their separate ways in their free time now. I have no doubt that they will stay together and be relatively happy, but I can see how things are changing.

So, do I support relationships that have a huge age gap? I think it just depends on the people involved. If you can look to the future and see yourself with someone who is going to hit senior citizen status long before you do, then go for it. Personally, I don't think I could do it.