Don't be the old couple watching television in matching recliners.

This image haunts me to this day, the image of older people in their matching recliners wasting away the rest of their lives watching television. Don't fall victim to this trap. As we age it is true we can't do as much as we can when we were younger. However that doesn't have to be a death sentence to sit mindlessly watching television for the rest of our lives. As a couple it is your position to spur each other on and not get trapped in that recliner of death. Turn the television off and read a book, that way at least you are stimulating your mind, now a days you can even use a reading device such as the Amazon kindle so that you don't have stacks of books laying around. Make sure you exercise your body, also. Take walks, do simple exercises if you are unable to do others. Make the commitment to each other to not let the sedimentary lifestyle set in on either of you. Think of things to do go out and watch your kids or grandchildren play sports, soak up some sun, and enjoy all of your life you can. No one ever remembers how many episodes of Dancing with the stars you watched during your life, but they do remember how much life you had in you, so live it up.

Watch older couples

Want to really know what makes relationships work? Then you need to go to someone who has been through a long term relationship. Think of family members that have been married or in a relationship for a very long time. Talk to them, pick their brains, you might get more information then you ever dreamed of. Sure times have changed and they might not have dealt with texting and facebook, but I am sure they had some challenges in their relationships. I am sure at some point they have had money issues, or problems with children, just to mention of few things that can cause stress in a relationship. They can tell you how the managed to make it through the tough times and if nothing else they will show you that it will pass.

Now when you are looking for these couples make sure you look for the ones that seem happy together. Don't ask a couple for help that seem to be leading two different lives. Watch for the ones that still hold hands or kiss. A great way to tell is if they still tell each other they love one another in front of people. Relatives might not be the best examples but you can find friends or just ask a happy older couple on the street what their secret is. I am sure they would be glad to pass it along to you and your partner.

Don't fall for the 7 year itching

Some people believe that after 7 years you should start being more mature in your relationship. The newness of your current state should be normal and you shouldn't be chasing each other around any more. BULLSH*T A healthy and active lifestyle will only keep improving your relationship. Look at some of the couples you know that you believe to still have a exciting life together. Do they look like they are no longer totally infatuated with each other? If you think that your relationship has to go through stages until it become boring and normal then you might have a hard time keeping the spark in your relationship. Yes you need your partner to be stable and there for you in times of need but you also need them to let you know they still want to jump your bones. All these things are important to a thriving relationship. Look up and see the benefits of a healthy sex life, and just being happy in general. Then go back and act like a teenager with your partner. This will keep you young and your relationship as healthy as when you were teenagers.