Relationships and family

Main topics

• End of life issues

  Thinking about the end of life can be difficult, but being informed can help us stay in control of the way we die.

• Coping with bereavement

  When you lose someone, it can feel like your world has fallen apart. Our advice and support can help you cope.

• How to adjust to living alone

  Although it may be scary to begin with, living on our own is a situation most of us can adapt to.

• Remarrying in later life

  The number of us getting married in later life is increasing and the majority of these are remarriages after a divorce or bereavement. We know what an exciting and emotional time it can be, but there are also some key practical issues to consider when remarrying or forming a new civil partnership.

• Protecting older people from abuse or neglect

  Further information to help if you are an older person who is being abused or neglected, or you are concerned on an older person’s behalf that they are being abused. This includes details on approaches to safeguarding – including relevant legislation, statutory guidance and policies – together with practical steps that can be taken to stop abuse.

• Information for older LGBT people

  Many issues in later life are similar whether you’re heterosexual, lesbian, gay, bisexual or trans, but some matters may need specific consideration. The legal context has changed in relation to LGBT people, mainly in a positive way. Knowing your rights can help you navigate through systems that can feel complicated or confusing.

• Information guide: Sex, relationships and intimacy

  There’s a common misconception that people stop having sex when they get older. But for many older people, sex and intimacy are important parts of life. Of course, things change over time. Physical changes, health conditions and other life stresses can affect how you and your partner feel. Some relationships come to an end – and you might have mixed feelings about starting a new one. But the conversation around sexual health and wellbeing is more open and positive than it used to be. It’s much easier to access support if you need it – and our information guide is here to help.