I had a 16 year hiatus myself. Initially set on by financial reasons as I was young and skint, but I also had an emergency in a helicopter and I suppose in hindsight it contributed. I came off it and the interest died or subsided.
During these years I used to look up into the sky every time a small aircraft flew by and feel like it was something from the past. I relished the memories but didn't feel the need to fly myself. Then about 3-4 years ago I woke up and felt the need one day. Don't know why. The rigmarole of getting all the licenses back were briskly dealt with and here I am an aircraft owner.
I think for me it was closely related to my earning. Now I can afford it, which I couldn't then. The years were also needed to calm my fear of dying after that emergency.
I hope I don't come off it again.