Study explores growing trend of older couples living apart together

A study published in the Journal of Family Issues has revealed that an increasing number of older adults are opting for "Living Apart Together" (LAT) relationships, a growing trend where couples maintain intimate partnerships while living in separate households.

The findings challenge traditional notions of cohabitation and marriage among older age groups in the United Kingdom.

The research, led by Professor Rory Coulter from University College London, analysed data from the United Kingdom Household Longitudinal Study between 2011 and 2023.

It found that approximately 4% of people over 60 in the UK are in LAT relationships, with similar trends observed in countries like the United States, Netherlands, and Canada.

The study also highlighted a significant gender disparity in LAT preferences.

For single women over 60, LAT is 10 times more likely than cohabitation or marriage. Among men in the same age group, LAT is nearly 20 times more likely than cohabitation and 10 times more likely than marriage.

One of the key findings was the mental health benefits associated with LAT.

Older adults in LAT arrangements reported lower levels of mental distress and higher levels of well-being compared to single individuals.

While the mental health boost from LAT was marginally smaller than that of marriage or cohabitation, it offered a more balanced approach, avoiding the complexities of shared living arrangements and divorce proceedings.

“LAT provides a gender-egalitarian way for older women and men to access mental health benefits through intimate relationships,” noted Professor Yang Hu of Lancaster University, a co-author of the study.

“Our findings highlight the value of often invisible intimate ties beyond the household in sustaining older adults’ well-being.”

The research emphasises that LAT allows older adults to maintain personal independence and navigate the intricate family dynamics often present later in life.

“When we think about intimate partnerships, we often focus on couples who live under the same roof,” said Coulter.

“Our study draws attention to the importance of intimate relationships that stretch across households.

”LAT offers a viable alternative for older adults seeking companionship and emotional support without the potential downsides of shared living, a finding that may reshape societal perceptions of relationships in later life.

IOL