Finding Love in Later Life: Let’s Talk About the Golden Bachelor

Alright, I admit, I didn’t watch the show. I’m more of an anglophile who prefers to spend my evenings watching Britbox or a historical drama. But all I’ve been hearing about is the Golden Bachelor and its ensuing divorce.

I’m sorry but I can’t imagine how anyone could fall in love with someone they met on a TV reality show, let alone marry them, especially if they are older and experienced. Maybe I’m jaded because I have worked in the film industry most of my life.

It turns out that the marriage didn’t work out after only three months because Theresa and Gerry couldn’t agree on where they wanted to live. She has a job she loves in New Jersey as an investor and he lives in the home he shared with his late wife in Indiana. Neither wanted to pick up and leave their children, grandchildren, and friends. I wouldn’t either, would you?

A relationship expert weighs in

Relationship expert Susan Winter told People Magazine that most single people over 50 look for a companion rather than a steamy relationship or someone to move in with.

I get that. I’m single after losing two men to cancer. I miss having a partner to go with to a restaurant or event. But, I’m not in any hurry to share a bathroom or bedroom unless we are on a vacation somewhere. I don’t see the point of leaving my friends to move far away or divide my time between nurturing a new relationship and spending time with my family.

My kids never warmed up to my boyfriend who moved in with me after my husband died. I’ve been there, done that.

Theresa and Gerry say they gave it an honest try. I sincerely doubt it. They didn’t feel the need to compromise because they’ve done that their entire lives. Why start now?

Television marriages are not real

Most TV reality shows are staged. Most relationships in shows like The Golden Bachelor do not work out. You have to be out of your mind to think a person will fall in love with someone who tries out other partners on camera. I could understand a fun fling but for seniors, who have been around the block and back, it doesn’t seem likely…AT ALL!

Viewers are in an uproar

The show’s audience is out of their minds because they “believed there was hope.” Some are repulsed by the idea of bringing back another round of old codgers who won’t stick together at the end. It was suggested that the contestants should at least live in the same area. That makes sense.

What do older people look for when finding new love?

According to Winter, younger people want passion while older people seek agreement.

Why waste time with someone if arguing will make your blood pressure rise?

She says seniors want compatibility, internal peace, comfort, and security.

Other reasons the relationship failed

There are rumors that Gerry wasn’t honest about the relationships he had after his wife died. Honestly, that seems like BS to me. Before committing to marriage between two seniors, it would be ridiculous not to have a conversation about each other’s past and one would certainly do research beforehand. Most older people have some baggage coming into a new relationship.

Bachelor/bachelorette TV shows want a happy ending with a glitzy wedding at the end. I’m sure both Theresa and Gerry got paid or at least had some fun while it lasted.

Find new love on eHarmony here.