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Originally Posted By Martha

We are an older couple -- 53 and 59, married 6 years, no children. We want to adopt and we are going to start a homestudy. I would like to hear from others about the youngest age child that we should adopt. What is fair for the child? We would love under 10 years old, even 7 or 8 years old. Is that fair?

Thanks!

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Originally Posted By Marie

I don't think you should worry too much of what others will think. Adopting, at any age, is a wonderful, selfless thing. My hubby & I are 37 & 38, married almost 10 yrs, no children, & waiting to adopt a child under 12 mos. I sometimes feel too that our child should be older if you go by what others in our same boat have done (most of our family & friends have children from ages 2yrs to 13yrs & they are younger than us, just married longer). I too thought about a 7 to 8 yr old, but, what the hec, I'm goin' for my baby just the way all my friends & family got to do, & I really don't care if they feel we're too old! Go for that child YOU want. Sounds like you've got a good head on your shoulders and wouldn't take on a child if you felt you wouldn't be physically able to care for him or her before they became an adult. If you're in good health & have the patience for another 10 yrs, I think personally 8 is a great age for you (since you asked). Some countries do have age limits though, so you'd want to check this out first so as not to be too disappointed. If you're going through DCFS, it usually doesn't matter so much what you ages are. Just remember, there will always be negative bubble-bursters who will try to talk you out of it (as they have with us), saying you're too old. But, it's not your fault you two got a later start on this than most, so just let your heart be your guide...