Dear Goldie:

My wife and I divorced 10 years ago after our four children left the nest. We saw very little of each other until this last summer when we seemed to have more family celebrations. Strange as it may be, we now get along very well when we meet. I would like to start dating her with the hope of us getting back together again. Some of my friends think this is a crazy idea. However, we feel we are both older and wiser and do not have the stress of family life now. What do you think about it?

-N.S.

Dear N.S.:

There are many things to consider. It's true you do not have family stress now, but you can encounter many types of stress as you age. I would suggest you take it slow until you spend lots of time becoming reacquainted. You have doubtless both changed over the years. Also, the stress you experienced before may affect your judgment now. There is no guarantee you can resume your old relationship but time and effort can produce a new one worth experiencing.

Dear Goldie:

I have been in a very good relationship for three years, but in recent months, it seems to be deteriorating. We are both in our seventies, in good health and keep active. But it seems we have lost interest in things we used to share and enjoy. We both have large families whom we like spending time with. Can you suggest anything to bring back the spark to our relationship?

-W.O.

Dear W.O.:

You are fortunate to be in good health and still active. The problem might be your large families. Continued excessive involvement with family activities may deprive you of your personal lives. It is time for you and your partner to look into this before your relationship disappears. Immediately start planning a vacation where you only have each other to focus on. At your age, your families have enough adults to deal with any problems that arise. Enjoy your holiday and continue your great relationship.

JANUARY 2012 SENIOR LIVING MAGAZINE VANCOUVER ISLAND
JANUARY 2012 SENIOR LIVING MAGAZINE VANCOUVER & LOWER MAINLAND