Spain sees rise in 'Living Apart Together' couples

Sociologists in Spain report a growing share of mature couples choosing to live separately while maintaining a stable relationship, a pattern known as Living Apart Together (LAT). Although the national statistics office does not currently track it, researchers Luis Ayuso of the University of Málaga and Pedro Sánchez Vera estimate that 6‑8 % of people over 50 are in such arrangements.

The trend reflects a desire for personal space and autonomy after children leave home and economic pressures ease. The article cites the example of Jacinto and Elena, who after twenty years of marriage moved into separate apartments to preserve intimacy and avoid the routine of co‑habitation, while still sharing care and occasional visits. LAT couples accept higher costs and the need to manage loneliness, but find that maintaining separate households can reinforce connection and communication.