Free Help Sheets

Practical ideas for maintaining closeness, respect, and enjoyment together Long relationships naturally evolve. Health issues, retirement, or family changes can all affect how partners relate to one another. Yet later life can also bring deeper appreciation, humour, and companionship — if you keep investing in small daily gestures that nurture connection. Strong relationships aren’t about avoiding problems but about staying curious, kind, and flexible as you both change. ​ Va

Practical ideas for keeping conversations clear, confident, and connected Good communication helps maintain strong relationships, but it can become more difficult with age. Changes in hearing, confidence, or social contact can make conversation harder. By using a few practical strategies, it’s possible to keep communication warm, clear, and enjoyable. ​ Notice what affects your conversations You may find it harder to hear in busy places, lose your train of thought, or feel ne

Practical ideas for maintaining harmony, closeness, and shared purpose Retirement brings big changes to daily life and relationships. With more time together and fewer outside distractions, couples often discover both new joys and new challenges. Adjusting to this stage takes understanding, patience, and a willingness to grow together in different ways. Small, steady efforts can help you stay connected and keep your relationship strong. ​ Recognise that retirement changes the

Practical ideas for adjusting to new routines and keeping harmony at home Retirement changes the rhythm of daily life for both partners. Time once spent at work is now shared at home, bringing new opportunities for companionship — and new challenges around space, habits, and expectations. Adjusting takes patience and communication, but with care, living together after retirement can strengthen your relationship and sense of teamwork. ​ Acknowledge that life at home has change

Practical ideas for easing tension and improving understanding Disagreements are part of every close relationship, especially during times of stress or change. Conflict doesn’t have to mean shouting or distance — it can be a way to understand each other better if handled calmly and kindly. Learning to respond rather than react helps protect both your peace of mind and your relationships. ​ Recognise when tension is rising Arguments often build from small frustrations. Notice