Living apart together: separate houses, same communication, the new path to happiness for couples over 60?

In recent years, a new type of relationship has emerged. This is known as Living Apart Together, also called LAT. This assumes that the couple is in a relationship but living in different residences. This is similar to the setting that couples follow when they are not yet married and choose to live physically apart.

However, according to new research conducted by the University of Lancaster (UK) in collaboration with University College London, the dynamic of life has proven beneficial for couples over the age of 60. Research suggests that the key to happiness for seniors is for couples to live in separate residences. Read also | How seniors in India find love

In a statement, a British university said that leaving a marriage can lead to worse mental health, but living in separate residences while still being married can benefit people over 60.

How can LAT help older couples?

Research has shown that leaving a marriage or cohabitation can have a serious impact on people’s mental health. However, when people choose to stay in separate residences, they are not forced to spend all their time with each other, but choose to stay in a long and lasting relationship of their own free will. It gives more meaning to the relationship.

Ian Hu, a professor at Lancaster University and co-author of the study with Rory Coulter of University College London, said: “It is time we saw and recognized the power of intimate, often invisible, connections outside the home to support the well-being of older people.” Read also | Here’s the real story of the photos of an elderly couple that broke the internet

Often, being under the same roof with a partner is a societal obligation and is independent of independence. Therefore, living together separately can help to achieve a more sincere relationship based on choice and intimacy. There is also less deterioration in mental health than separated couples who leave the marriage.