Get out of that Marriage Rut!

The thriving ThirdAge community offers support to those who are committed to making their relationships work. Here's what they said in an online discussion hosted by Patl29.

She says it's a place for people "to air their problems and talk about them with others in a safe, respectful and caring environment." She adds that "feedback in the form of shared experiences, comments and advice from others who have been there or are going through it now is quite a comfort and resource of information."

In one instance, a woman experiencing menopause asked for help keeping up with her husband, who was going through his own changes after a heart attack. A helpful reader suggested putting her feelings on paper. "In our 'quick-fix' world, taking the time to share letters...can bring about a greater desire to level with each other and rekindle some skills of compassion and understanding."

Host Patl29 says lack of communication is the most common problem she sees, but "no relationship is impossible to fix if both partners want to repair the relationship." Once they are committed, then her "best advice is to TALK, TALK, TALK to each other."