Companionship, affection and intimacy are needs that do not just go away as you age. In fact, many older people continue to enjoy physical and emotional closeness throughout their lives. Romance plays a big role in keeping relationships going good. When your love life starts to feel stagnant, an investment of time and ideas can help stimulate excitement, desire and love. Simple changes in your everyday routine and a renewed commitment to maintaining a good balance can revitalize your love life after 50.
1. Set the atmosphere.
Setting a romantic atmosphere can get you both in the mood. Use a dimmer switch to dim lights, and then place scented candles at strategic points throughout the room. You can also use a fragrance diffuser to fill the air with a lush, indulgent scent. Keep a bottle of bubbly or your favorite wine on ice, cook sumptuous meal and serve dinner on your most elegant plates. Fragrant flowers can heighten the excitement and make your night feel like a special event even if you are only enjoying a romantic weekday dinner.
2. Get in the mood.
While you may be most comfortable in yoga pants or slouchy jeans, neither is likely to make you feel particularly sexy. Freshly pressed pants with a crisp shirt and tie can make him look incredibly debonair while a slinky dress, understated jewelry and flirty kitten heels can make her feel beautiful and seductive. Add some lingerie, a dab or perfume and makeup for the perfect finishing touches.
3. Remember the power of play.
Day-to-day responsibilities with kids, grandkids and jobs can make your life feel like a whirlwind of busyness, and it can be easy to forget the fun parts of life. Bring back that spirit of playfulness that brought you together in the first place. Give her backside a little love tap, surprise him with unexpected hugs, offer a few teasing kisses before leaving for work and send flirty texts or emails throughout the day to heighten that sense of anticipation.
4. Be unpredictable.
Doing stuff out of the ordinary can bring back the same sort of excitement and anticipation you felt in the early days of your relationship. Make surprise reservations at a favorite resort, plan a special getaway for just the two of you or schedule a treat just for him or her. These little changes may not seem like a lot, but they can make a big difference in the closeness you feel.
5. Get answers.
Menopause can leave women feeling less than interested in the romantic side of their relationship, and men may notice a similar decline in their sex drive. Exercise and healthy lifestyle habits can help rebuild desire, but they may not be enough. Talk to your doctor if your sex drive continues to lag and is interfering with your relationship.