In the U.S., approximately 27% of adults age 60 and older live alone. Within this group, women are more likely than men to live by themselves (20% vs. 11%). Living solo can be a positive experience for many people: You can watch what you want on TV, come and go as you please, and make all the big decisions that impact your life. The lack of a partner doesn’t mean you’re “missing out.” You may have a rich social life filled with friends, family, travel, and hobbies, and you find your life is perfect just the way it is.
Senior Couple
But there may come a time when you’re interested in dating. Not only can the pursuit of new romance feel exhilarating; it offers real benefits for your health and well-being, too. Intimate connections like those created during dating can alleviate stress, delay mental and physical decline, and help you live longer.
The good news is that when it comes to dating as a senior, some things haven’t changed. Tried-and-true methods of meeting new people still apply, including: 1) introductions through people you know, like friends and family, 2) shared interests and hobbies such as church, fitness classes, or recreational activities, and 3) social events like weddings, birthday parties, and graduations.
Online dating isn’t just for twenty somethings. In fact, there are many dating sites that cater to older adults, such as Silver Singles or Our Time. Forbes lists some of the most popular options in its Guide to the Best Senior Dating Sites of 2022 (https://www.forbes.com/health/healthy-aging/best-senior-dating-sites).
With a senior dating app, you’ll typically be required to register using your email address. You may be asked to fill out a questionnaire so that the system can better pair you with other singles who are a good fit. You’ll usually be prompted to upload a photo of yourself. Once you’ve completed your profile, you’ll start receiving matches in your local area. If you decide you want to connect with someone, you’ll often be allowed to send them a private message using an online message function. Then it’s up to you to decide whether you want to meet the individual face-to-face.
Before you dive head-first into the world of dating after 50, there are some things to consider. Here’s what we recommend:
1. Meet in public first. On any first date, always meet in a public place and continue to do so until you feel at ease with that person. Before you leave your home, make sure to let friends and family know where you’ll be. Don’t overshare. Keep your personal information under wraps when first getting to know someone such as details about where you live, where you work, your family, and your finances.
2. Stick to your boundaries. As an older adult, you know what you feel comfortable with. Play by your own rules and don’t worry about what others your age are doing.
3. Discuss sex up front. When you’re a senior who is dating, having sex isn’t a given. You may no longer have the libido you once did, or you may have certain beliefs about sex outside of marriage. Setting expectations early can help prevent misunderstandings later on.
5. Never give or send anyone money. The dating scene is a hotbed for con artists eager to take advantage of trusting, unsuspecting older adults. Be on the lookout for red flags, such as a person telling you about their financial hardships right off the bat.
Finally, whether you’re meeting people the old-fashioned way or using a senior dating app, be patient. That right person, when they come along, will be worth the wait. Article courtesy of National Council on Aging.