Boomers remember that back in the 1970s, it was considered a “sin” to shack up with a significant other without being married. Today, these same people are part of a growing number of seniors aged 65+ who are enjoying the excitement and comfort of cohabitation.
A Bowling Green State University study found that in 2019, 2.1 million older adults aged 50 and older were cohabiting, out of 35 million unmarried household heads in that age group. A similar 2019 Pew Research Center study found 23% of all cohabiting adults are seniors, a number that has increased by 75% since 2007.
Seniors who say ‘been there, done that’ regarding their marriages and divorces prefer the de facto relationship, relishing the characteristics of connubial bliss without the legal status. Seniors often choose cohabitation to maintain financial stability, share expenses, and continue receiving benefits, such as a deceased spouse’s pension or Social Security, which might be lost upon remarriage.
They’ve found the arrangement allows them to retain their independence, avoid legal responsibilities, and protect assets for their children.
Social attitudes play into the idea of cohabitation. Many adults feel they don’t need to keep up with traditional norms and can do whatever they please without parents to judge or children living under their roofs.
While a couple can enjoy the fruits of a hedonistic habitat, sharing hobbies, friends, and good times, they should also consider sharing some guardrails to maintain a harmonious home and protect their rights.
Cohabitation agreements can be drafted that specify the division of household expenses and what will happen to your house in the case of death or breakup. A HIPAA medical release allows each partner access to the other’s medical information, and a durable power of attorney allows your partner to make financial decisions for you if you become incapacitated.
Times have changed, and there is little stigma about living together without a marriage license. Yet, the naughty feeling when telling friends and family that they are living in sin and seeing the raised eyebrows only makes the couple’s relationship stronger and far more fun.
