Enjoying a romantic relationship without cohabiting, or ‘living apart, together’, found to be a popular arrangement

Summary

A UK study (2011-2023) found that people over 60 in “living apart, together” (LAT) relationships enjoy mental wellbeing similar to marriage, without the daily frictions, caregiving burdens, or legal constraints of cohabitation.

LAT is 10 times more common than marriage among over-60s starting new relationships, offering autonomy while maintaining intimacy and family ties.

Unlike younger LAT couples, older adults see it as a long-term choice. Researchers highlight its policy implications for mental health and caregiving.

LAT breakups also pose less mental health risk than ending marriages or cohabitation.