Older Women, Younger Men: Does It Really Work?

Older men have dated younger women for centuries, but in the past decade, the tables have turned: Older women are now coupling with younger men in droves.One-third of single women between 40 and 60 are currently dating younger men--and for some very interesting reasons.

Happily Ever After?
Women prefer to date younger men because they have less baggage from previous relationships. Older women also enjoy the flexibility and spontaneity of their younger companions. In addition, more and more women are pointing to companionship and travel as their top priorities, rather than settling down.

And men have jumped on the bandwagon, too. A recent Match.com poll revealed that the majority of the site's male members were willing to date up in age.

What's more, it's gone beyond dating: 12 percent of all marriages were between older women and younger men. This doesn't mean, however, that relationships between older women and younger men are problem-free.The biggest issue between May-December couples is the same one that challenges the success of any relationship: different priorities.

Tips for Success
The key to long-term relationship success is choosing someone with a similar "voltage type," meaning someone who has the same intensity for life that you do.