Relationship Advice: 8 Creative Ways That Older Couples Can Keep the Romance Alive

By Amy Osmond Cook for Divorce Support Center

Despite what the tabloids may say, not all celebrity relationships go down in flames. Joanne Woodward and Paul Newman were happily married for 50 years; Michael J. Fox and Tracy Pollan found lasting love; and Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson are still going strong. It may take a little extra effort to keep the love alive through the years, especially if you and your significant other have forgotten how to connect or are stuck in the same routine. But with some relationship advice, the passion is sure to ignite again!

Consider the relationship advice below to add a little spice to your love life:

1. Get back to the basics: As an experienced couple, you know what makes your love tick. It could be surprise kisses, breakfast in bed, watching the sunset together, or enjoying old movies. The relationship advice that I encourage you to consider is to think back to the little things that made your partnership exciting over the years. Even holding hands or taking the time to express specific things you love about one another can make a big difference.

Leslie Stubenvoll, director of social services at Palm Terrace Healthcare and Rehab in Laguna Woods, CA, said, “The couples that shine the brightest are the ones that make the effort to hold hands, be extra nurturing, and pay attention to the other’s needs.” Sometimes, the most romantic thing you can do is give simple reminders and signals that they’re on your mind.

2. Go on a walk together: Quality time is a must when it comes to romance. Walking is the perfect way to spend quality time, share meaningful conversation, and even do some of that hand-holding! You’ll have the opportunity to reconnect, get some exercise and fresh air, and take a break from your usual routine.

Related Link: Enjoy a Secret Sunset on Your Next Date Night

3. Plan a photoshoot: Over the years, you’ve probably taken many family photos with kids, grandkids, and a wide range of color-coordinated outfits. Try doing a photo shoot of just the two of you. Dress up in your favorite clothes, drive to your favorite spot around town or in nature, and have your photos professionally taken. Not only will this be a fun way to spend time together, but it’ll also give you romantic photographs to hang up around your home. Not to mention, during the photo shoot, you’ll be reminded of how her eyes sparkle or how his smile makes your heart skip a beat!

4. Take a road trip: Your favorite tunes, good food, new sights, and the endless road add up to one great date idea. A road trip could be just the trick you need to rekindle your romance. Try adding a little excitement by making the destination unknown or researching a bed and breakfast where you two can spend the night.

5. Go on a scavenger hunt: This romantic idea is a fun twist on a road trip. Map out all the places that are significant to your relationship, including favorite restaurants, places you love to walk, or locations of good memories. You can design it as a scavenger hunt with the final location being somewhere new to both of you. By the end of the day, you’ll both be reminded of the history that’s made your relationship strong.

6. Focus on intimacy: Some couples struggle with intimacy as they grow older. A healthier sex life between you and your partner could be the key to your romance struggles. If your relationship is lacking in this department, trade in a date night for a weekend getaway. For an even simpler idea, light some candles to set the mood. Intimacy is essential to connecting as a couple and can often be a romantic experience for both parties.

Related Link: Date Idea: Enroll in a New Class

7. Explore new hobbies: Learning something new is a great way to bond and make exciting memories with your loved one. Take up golfing or attend an art class. The two of you will have something new to share while spending meaningful time with each other. This kind of experience can help shake up the routine and reignite the romance.

8. Learn about your love language: Sometimes, the best way to increase romance is to learn how you and your partner want to be loved. One of my favorite books is The 5 Love Languages. The book outlines the five possible ways most people want to receive and give love. Understanding how your partner wants to be loved, whether it’s through acts of service or words of affirmation, will help you connect and feel the love on a deeper level.

It’s never too late to turn up the heat in your love life. Try out some of these tips, and the flame of your romance will be reignited!

For more information about and articles by our Hope After Divorce relationship experts, click here.

How do you and your sweetheart keep the romance alive? Comment below!