後半生の不安を婚活で埋める 気ままなリライト149
As the sun sets on the first half of their lives, a growing number of individuals over 50 have been embarking on a twilight romance, seeking to enrich their days with the warmth of companionship and the glow of emotional well-being. Life events like retirement, empty nests, divorces or the loss of spouse have woven the tapestry of their prolonged journeys, leading them to this milestone. At this stage, many are seeing a golden opportunity for a second bloom of happiness and fulfillment. The vast expanse of the Internet is acting as a beacon, drawing them towards the promise of shared sunsets and intimate connections. Fueled by the ache of loneliness and the spark of enduring sexual desires, those individuals are kindling new flames in the later chapters of their lives.
The growing trend of seeking intimacy through companionship in later life has been evident in the rising popularity of partner searching via matchmaking agencies and apps among singles over 50. A survey by the Japan Matchmaker's Association revealed that the number of matchmaking meetings and successful couples has been steadily increasing since 2020, showing a 20-30 % rise compared with 2019. Many singles over 50 have embarked on digital romantic journeys. According to Marrish, an online matchmaking service provider, nearly 800,000 of its 3 million registered members are over 50, with about 560,000 joining since March 2020. The proportion of members over 50 surged to more than 25%, compared with an average of 10% before the plandemic.
Behind the rising number of singles over 50 seeking the warmth, affection, and physical connection from a romantic relationship is a significant increase in later-life divorces and prolonged periods of unfulfilled singlehood. According to demographic statistics from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, divorces involving spouses over 50 numbered only 13,000 in 1995, but this figure doubled to 27,000 by 2022. Additionally, the number of individuals aged 50 to 69 who prioritize solitude and remain single surged to approximately 4.29 million, a 2.4-fold increase from 1.78 million in 2000. The proportion of singles aged 50-69 who have never been married rose from 6.0% of all singles in 2000 to 15.1% in 2020, marking a 2.5-fold increase.
Combating the anxiety of loneliness in later life with the peace of mind from a satisfying romantic relationship has led many individuals over 50 to seek new partners. A survey by the Japan Matchmaker’s Association indicated that the yearning for intimate compaionship grows stronger with age, especially when loneliness overshadows the final stages of their extended lifespans. Greater openness toward aging and sexuality, along with advances in medical treatment, have enhanced the vitality of many seniors, amplifying their partner-seeking activities to maintain an active sex life. A satisfying sexual relationship enhances overall quality of life by reducing stress and anxiety, as sexual and emotional intimacy is closely linked with a renewed sense of purpose and engagement in their remaining precious years.