I think the key is to find someone who is not bothered by the age difference. If the other person is bothered by it, then yes, it probably will affect your relationship. But, if both partners are OK with the age difference, then it makes things a lot easier. Of course society is always a bit weird about these things, but you can't change the opinions of others. Why live your life according to what others think? In the end you'll just end up throwing away your own happiness. Do what makes YOU happy!

I've known a guy for the last 5 years and its been a bit on/off between us. He's 10 years younger than I am. I've always thought that the age difference would bother HIM, but it turns out to be a bigger issue of mine that I'm trying to let go of. The truth is that even though he's younger, we're in similar places in life, while most guys my age are in completely different places so things don't mesh well. Then again, I'm a bit paranoid about everyone that I date so with him, it may just be that the chosen issue is age. (Ya, I've got issues, too!!!)