Dating 101 for Seniors
Dating at any age can feel daunting and overwhelming. Whether we’re in our 20’s, 30’s, or a divorcee in our 40’s and 50’s, dating can feel like an exhausting process. Dating is especially challenging for seniors. Many are widowed and feeling isolated, lonely, and find themselves craving companionship. Unfortunately, seniors often are overlooked when it comes to validating dating and sexual needs but all of these needs are valid at any age.
With the changing landscape over the last few decades with technology, over 70% of people ages 43-58 found their romantic companion on an online dating website or app. The same goes for ages 20-35 with around the same percentage meeting on an app. For many seniors this concept sounds foreign, frightening, and completely out of their depth. But it doesn’t have to be.
As a licensed therapist, I am a huge proponent of using dating apps but not “living and dying by them.” Regardless of age, dating apps should be just one avenue used to find a romantic partner. For seniors, dating apps can be a place to start but it shouldn’t feel like the only option available. Here are some tips on how to get started dating as a senior.
Make a dating profile
Making a dating profile does not have to feel as scary as it sounds. If technology is not your strong suit, don’t worry, this is where you either use the younger generation to help you get started uploading pictures. In your profile, use this as a place for people to get to know you. What are your passions? Who’s in your family? How to you like spending your time? Many websites give you prompts to help you along with this and most are extremely user friendly. Here are just a few website and app options available that rank incredibly high for seniors.
OurTime
Eharmony
SilverSingles
Zoosk
DateMyAge
Match
Tawkify
ChristianMingle
Make sure that you pick the right website or app that resonates with you and you have a chance of meeting people who share your interests and values.
Get involved in local hobbies and activities
I encourage every single I work with to do this regardless of being on the apps or not. Getting involved in fun in person activities can be incredibly satisfying. Trying to get involved in things where you have a chance of meeting new people, trying new things, or doing something you love leads to not just a boost for mental health but it can lead to meeting friends and even romantic interests. Think outside the box! Try a board game group, join a book club, join a seniors exercise group, get involved in local seniors trivia and bingo nights. Start taking advantage of what your community offers and jump in with both feet.
Join a local faith or volunteer organization
Whether you have a faith that you follow, or have a cause that you support, find a way to join a community where you can meet others who feel passionate about what you do. Many seniors find great volunteer opportunities where they work closely with other seniors and make life long connections. Others join a faith or non denominational organization to meet others who share their beliefs. This can be a great way to make connections, meet people, and find potential romantic partners with commonalities.
Use online safety and Use Caution
Before going out with someone you’ve met online, make sure that you are taking safety precautions. Always meet in a public place, google search or background check them to see they are in fact who they say they are, and tell a close friend where you will be. Always make sure that you are being safe and taking precautions.
Remember Your Value
Sometimes when we’re lonely or isolated, we forget all of what we value and our worth. It is incredibly important that in dating you remember what your value and that you are worthy of kindness, respect, honesty, and love.
Have Safe Sex
While dating again can be thrilling and sex can be a wonderful part of that journey, make sure you’re practicing safe sex. STI’s can be an issue at any age, so make sure that you’re taking precaution and practicing safe sex.
Have fun!
Finding a new romance and have sex with someone new is an exciting and fulfilling time. Make sure that you are present in the moment and reminding yourself that you’re allowed to have some fun!
