Residents’ share secrets to lasting love
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Five residents sitting and holding an A4-sized blackboard each with their name, age and love advice on it.

Residents’ share secrets to lasting love


Monday, 13 February 2023

Residents from Henry Kendall Gardens and Brentwood Village shared their most treasured pearls of romantic wisdom.

What’s the secret to a happy and lasting relationship? Whether you've been married for two years or two decades, one thing remains true — relationships require effort, understanding and commitment. And who better to share their insights than the residents of our retirement villages, who have lived and loved through the years?

We sat down with them to uncover their time-tested wisdom on love, companionship and what it takes to build a relationship that stands the test of time. So, what’s the key to lasting love? Hear from the residents who know it best.

A senior holding a placard with his name, age and a piece of love advice

How to recognise the moment you’ve found love

A senior holding a placard with his name, age and a piece of love advice
“I fell in love straight away."

Love isn’t always about grand gestures. Often, it’s the small, meaningful moments that confirm you’ve found the one. Some couples feel an instant spark, while for others, love grows over time through shared experiences. Resident Gail knew the moment she met Ross, simply saying, “Wow.” Ross, now married to her for 52 years, was drawn to her warm smile and beautiful blue eyes. 

Walter, married to Betty for 80 years, recalls, “I fell in love straight away. I asked her to dance and we kept dancing all night.” Barry, who has shared 53 years with his wife Gail, fondly remembers thinking, “She’s mine” the first time he saw her. 

Whether it happens in an instant or unfolds gradually, love has a way of making itself known.

How to cherish and celebrate your better half

A senior holding a placard with her name, age and a piece of love advice
“His positive attitude keeps me going.”

Love is found in the little things — the unique qualities that make your partner truly special. “He makes me outgoing,” says Maz about her husband Tom, to whom she has been married for 50 years. Pam appreciates her husband for a simple but invaluable reason, “He’s a cook and I hate cooking!” For many, love is about laughter, companionship and a shared outlook on life. “His positive attitude keeps me going,” says resident Gail about her husband Ross.

Couples who have spent decades together share that lasting love isn’t just about chemistry, it’s about standing by each other through life’s challenges. Open communication, trust and support are essential, as is knowing when to listen and compromise. Some believe in resolving conflicts before the day ends, while others find humour and small gestures help keep the bond strong. Ultimately, lasting love isn’t just about finding the right person but about growing together and choosing each other every day.

A senior holding a placard with her name, age and a piece of love advice

How to build a love that lasts a lifetime

“Be with someone who makes you happy."

The secret to a lasting relationship lies in happiness, patience and mutual respect. “Be with someone who makes you happy. That’s the key,” says Roy. For Walter and Betty, married for decades, love thrives on “caring and sharing.” And if all else fails, John offers a light-hearted but wise piece of advice, “Do as you’re told.” 

Through laughter, love and support, these couples remind us that true love isn’t just about grand gestures — it’s about the everyday moments, the compromises and the commitment to growing together.

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For more information about the lifestyle and support offered at our retirement villages, call our customer service team on 1800 550 550 or send us an email here. 

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