We live in a society where divorce has become so common that many people in their 50s are getting married. There are more people over 50 willing to get remarried after the death of a spouse. Marriage in older couples can be just as fun and exhilarating as it is for those who are in their 20s. Christian couples therapy can help you prepare for getting married at an older age.

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. – 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, NIV

It turns out that when a healthy person over 50 becomes single, they often decide to remarry. Whether it is divorce or death, the desire to have a companion doesn’t diminish. The loss of a spouse is difficult. The daily connections have disappeared, and the individual longs for someone to spend time with as they walk this life.

Benefits of a later-in-life marriage

There are many more benefits in these later-in-life marriages than people considered when they were younger. Older couples better understand what they want in a marriage. They know they don’t have to settle, and that leads to intentional connections. Couples therapy can generate a better understanding of how to weigh the benefits of later-in-life marriage.

Companionship

Older couples who have experienced true companionship know what it means to have a fulfilling relationship based on simple daily connections. Those who have experienced having an empty next understand the importance of having someone to share life with them.

Quality of life

Couples who choose marriage in their 50s often experience a better quality of life. Older couples have experienced more ups and downs in life and have learned how to navigate difficult moments. This means less conflict and more fulfillment. The reduction of stress can lead to a healthier mindset and overall lifestyle.

Considerations for marriage in your 50s

As with any decision, choosing to marry in your 50s should not be done lightly. Couples therapy with a Christian counselor can help prioritize the things to consider about the approaching day.

Financial

Couples need to discuss finances and what the expectations are as the couple moves toward retirement and a fixed income.

Health care

The couple should agree on the type of health care that will best benefit them as a couple. Take time to examine each healthcare plan and choose the one that will fit your budget and needs.

Estate planning

Combining lives means combining two homes and estates. An older couple will want to ensure that their assets are distributed in a manner that will benefit any children they may have. The intentions should be known upfront to avoid any conflict.

Emotional commitment

It may seem unimportant, but knowing whether each person will be emotionally available can affect the marriage. There will be challenges that will require one or both to be emotionally committed. This means each one must be intentional as they decide to commit to marriage and all that it will entail.

Blending families

When older couples build a new life together this will include blending families. Most couples in their 50s have grown kids and grandkids. This marriage will require the process of blending families. Discussing this process will make the connections easier, and ensure that everyone becomes a vital part of the new family foundation.

Personal outlook

Those individuals over 50 have been around for quite a few changes in society and politics. It is not something to overlook as you choose to marry again. Take time to consider if the outlook you have will coincide with your future spouse. This means considering the goals, outlook, and worldview each brings to this new marriage.

Romantic compatibility

Choosing to get married at any age should always consider romantic compatibility. Romance doesn’t end when you get older. Understanding how each other romantically responds to companionship can create a healthy marriage that will increase the quality of life.

Conclusion

Marriage over the age of 50 is not uncommon today. It is becoming more acceptable for people to remarry after the death of a spouse or mid-life divorce. Understanding what each person expects helps eliminate any confusion about the outlook of the marriage.

A Christian counselor can help you understand the issues to consider before entering a new marriage. Connect with us to meet with a local Christian counselor. They can help you make the right choices regarding marriage in your 50s and beyond.