In this episode of The Open Nesters Podcast, I explore the joy and laughter that come with the journey of aging and the phenomenon of open nesting. Conversing with my dear friend and mentor, Joyce Saltman, we dive deep into the many aspects of what it means to embrace life after our children have flown the coop. Joyce, an inspiring figure who seamlessly blends wit and wisdom, shares her experiences and insights from her life, including her personal adventures in dating, relationships, and the challenges and joys that arise in our later years.

As we reminisce about Joyce's unique perspective, she recounts her journey into the world of dating after her kids left home. With humor, she reflects on the lessons learned from her past relationships, including the societal expectations she faced regarding love and intimacy. Now at 78, she offers a candid look at how she has navigated the landscape of romance and friendship, making a case for being open to new experiences and connections during this vibrant stage of life.

Joyce's enchanting stories are mixed with her deep understanding of intimacy, relationships, and the importance of setting boundaries. We discuss how open nesting is about more than just an empty house; it’s about redefining personal freedom, maintaining relationships with our adult children, and creating new narratives for ourselves. Joyce emphasizes that open relationships, whether romantic or platonic, can thrive when built on solid foundations of trust and communication.

We delve into the delightful topic of sex and aging, where Joyce, with her characteristic lightheartedness, shares her humorous take on the subject. This includes her unique presentation titled “A Humorous Look at Sex and Aging”, where she combines research findings with laughter, focusing on the misconceptions and realities of intimacy as we grow older. She highlights not only the importance of physical affection but also the role of emotional connection—stressing that true intimacy goes far beyond just the physical act itself.

Throughout our conversation, Joyce provides sage advice on maintaining joy, whether through rituals of intimacy, engaging in laughter, or setting personal goals. We touch on the significance of nurturing friendships and the profound impact they have on mental well-being, especially in our golden years. Joyce’s anecdotes about her "husband equivalent" serve as further testament to embracing life’s possibilities, and her infectious spirit encourages us all to open our hearts and homes to new experiences.

In closing, Joyce offers a rich tapestry of humor and insights, reminding us to live fully, cherish our connections, and not be afraid to indulge in the pleasures life offers—be it celebrating the beauty of relationships or simply enjoying a good piece of chocolate. This episode is filled with laughter, love, and the reminder that we have the power to shape our experiences in this third act of life, making it one of the most rewarding chapters yet.