How to handle age difference in a relationship - Love doesn’t always check the ID at the door. However, some couples find that a big age gap results in a good few wrinkles appearing in their relationship fabric over time. On the flip side, other couples might find that age is just a number, a figure that hasn’t affected their relationship one bit. But even if you’re making good progress with your partner, a significant age difference can throw a few stumbling blocks your way. External forces can play a role in these issues, but facing them head-on can strengthen and improve your relationship.

So how can you fully accept the age difference, and how much is too much? Check out the gallery for some insights and guidance.

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Can an age gap affect relationships? -

If there is a big age difference in your relationship, this can affect your partnership in unique ways. But this doesn't just apply to the physical aspects of a relationship. 

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Emotional maturity -

In relationships where there is a significant emotional age difference, it might be that the more mature partner has to carry a heavier emotional burden. This can be tiring.

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Age doesn't ensure maturity -

However, being the older person in a relationship isn't necessarily a guarantee of emotional maturity, and being younger doesn't always mean your less mature.

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Why people get maturity wrong -

Sometimes people associate age with emotional maturity because more years can mean more time to form complex perspectives.

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Different life stages -

The larger the age difference between partners, the greater the chance of experiencing challenges related to different life stages.

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Usual challenges -

The most common challenges are often different energy levels, life priorities, and plans to start a family.

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Different priorities aren't exclusive to large age-gap relationships -

As with any relationship, it's important to openly talk about and understand each person's future priorities, particularly if you're aiming for a long-term relationship.

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What is the ideal age diference? -

In many cultures, it is more common in hetero relationships for the man to be two to three years older than the woman. But is this an accepted norm? 

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Statistics -

A study conducted in Australia in 2017 found that hetero couples with significant age differences experienced a faster decline in relationship satisfaction in the first six to ten years than couples of a similar age.

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Age gap and depression -

An earlier study carried out in Korea in 2015 found that couples who are the same age tend to have the lowest rates of depression. However, couples with an age difference greater than three years had slightly higher rates.

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The ideal age gap (statistically) -

Research suggests that most cultures view an age gap of one to three years as ideal, and some analysts suggest even an age gap of less than 10 years will bring more satisfaction.

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Love is more than just a number -

However, numbers alone cannot convey a comprehensive understanding of love. It is of course possible to have a big age difference and still enjoy a happy and fulfilling relationship.

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Issues with age differences in relationships -

However, some couples with large age differences may encounter certain obstacles.

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Social stigma -

In societies where smaller age differences prevail, couples defined by a large age difference may be judged or criticized by others. This can be particularly hurtful if friends or family are skeptical about your relationship.

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Power disparity -

Big age gaps can lead to an unbalanced power dynamic in which an older person assumes a dominant position. Similar situations can arise when one partner takes advantage of their partner's financial dependence in order to control them.

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How to bridge the gap -

If you are having difficulties with your family and friends or are worried about the future of your relationship, the following tips can help you surmount a variety of challenges.

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Set boundaries -

It's important to set clear boundaries with judgmental loved ones because it emphasizes the need for respect, even if they don't understand your relationship.

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Communicate -

As in any relationship, it is important for couples to talk openly about challenges and concerns.

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Consider your responses to others -

Think of a few answers to frequently repeated remarks about your relationship.

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Share expectations -

It is important to understand your partner's expectations when you're far apart in age. Therefore, you should communicate your expectations openly and honestly to avoid misunderstandings.

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Embrace the differences -

You may identify various differences with your partner, ranging from interests to perspectives. Instead of imposing your lifestyle, be supportive of where they are in theirs.

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Find mutual interests -

Embrace the generation gap by prioritizing common interests. Spend time doing things you both enjoy, and venture into uncharted territory by experiencing new things together.

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Accept the unpredictable -

Don't let the age difference become an awkward topic. If a problem arises, try to find solutions that are acceptable to both sides.

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Give some room -

Keeping a sense of individuality within a relationship is just as important as nurturing shared experiences. Balance is key!

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Understand that maturity is relative -

If you're the older one, you must regard your partner as a fully-fledged adult. And if you're the younger one, avoid referring to your partner as a "boomer" or "old-timer." Age alone isn't the only measure of maturity.

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Think about your role as caregiver -

One older spouse may need long-term health care sooner than the other. If you're the younger partner, honestly consider whether you're ready to take on the role of caregiver.

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Respect the relationship -

Remember that there are ups and downs in a relationship and that this is not necessarily due to the age difference. Instead, work on a strong emotional and physical bond.

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Find your support network -

When faced with external judgement about your relationship, it can be helpful to connect with other couples who share similar experiences. This fosters a sense of belonging and builds new friendships.

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Couples counseling -

If it is still proving difficult for both of you to overcome these challenges alone, you can also turn to couples counseling.

Sources: (Psych Central) (Brides)

See also: You won't believe the age gap between these celebrity couples!

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