Long-term love, also known as enduring love, refers to a type of love that develops and endures over an extended period of time in a relationship, usually between two romantic partners. It is a love that stands the test of time, evolving and growing stronger over the years.

Long-term love is characterised by several key elements:

• It involves a deep emotional bond between the partners, based on trust, understanding, acceptance and mutual appreciation. Partners support each other emotionally through life's ups and downs and are there for each other in times of joy, sadness, success and challenge.
•  It involves a long-term commitment to the relationship and a willingness to work together to overcome obstacles and challenges that may arise. This can include a willingness to compromise, to resolve conflicts constructively and to maintain the relationship despite the challenges that may arise.
• It is based on a deep respect for each other's differences, as well as admiration and appreciation of your partner's qualities and achievements. It includes recognising and valuing the individuality of each partner, and supporting their personal aspirations and goals.
• It involves open, honest and transparent communication between partners. This means being able to share your thoughts, feelings, needs and concerns in a respectful way, and actively listening to your partner without judgement.
• It includes satisfying emotional and physical intimacy between partners. This may include sharing a deep emotional connection, as well as physical intimacy that meets the needs and wishes of both partners.
• It involves a willingness to grow and evolve together as a couple. This can mean encouraging and supporting each partner's personal growth, as well as working together to achieve common goals and build a future together.

Long-term love is a type of love that requires constant commitment, open communication and a willingness to work together to overcome life's challenges. It can be rewarding and fulfilling, and can create a deep and meaningful relationship that lasts over time.

Unfortunately, sometimes long-term couples suffer erosion over time, so it's important to take stock, to keep that bond healthy. It's also possible to take stock with a couple health professional: a marriage counsellor or couple therapist.

Here are some behaviours or attitudes that can be considered as "love killers" in a senior couple:

• Lack of communication: Inadequate or ineffective communication can lead to misunderstandings, frustration and emotional distance between partners. It's important to keep the lines of communication open, to share your feelings, concerns and needs respectfully and to listen actively to your partner.
• Monotonous routine: Routine can creep up on a couple over time, but a monotonous, predictable routine can quickly erode the passion and excitement in a relationship. It's important to keep looking for ways to spice up the relationship, explore new activities together and maintain some spontaneity to avoid monotony.
• Neglecting intimacy: Physical intimacy is often considered an important aspect of a loving relationship. However, with age, there can be physiological or health challenges that can affect a senior couple's sex life. It's important to communicate openly about these challenges and find ways to maintain satisfying emotional and physical intimacy in the relationship.
• Lack of quality time: Life can be busy with family, work and social responsibilities, but it's important to devote quality time to your partner. The lack of time spent together can create a feeling of neglect and emotional distance in a senior couple. It is essential to plan quality time, share enjoyable activities and show appreciation and love for your partner.
• Lack of respect: Mutual respect is a key element of any healthy relationship. Lack of respect, whether expressed through hurtful words, demeaning actions or a failure to listen, can cause emotional distress and damage the love and affection between partners. It is important to treat each other with respect, to recognise differences and to resolve conflicts respectfully.
• Neglecting your own health and well-being: Taking care of your own health and well-being is essential to maintaining a fulfilling relationship. If one partner neglects their physical, emotional or mental health, this can lead to tension in the relationship. It is important to take care of yourself so that you can be present and engaged in the relationship in a balanced way.

It is important to note that every relationship is unique and that what can be considered a "love killer" can vary from one couple to another. Open communication, mutual understanding, respect and commitment to a healthy relationship are essential to maintaining a fulfilling love relationship, whatever your age.