Are you a senior citizen who’s looking to get back into the dating game?
The dating world is tough for everybody, but it can be especially tough for those who are older. When you’re older, your social circle is a bit smaller, and you’re not going out and meeting people every Friday and Saturday night like you used to.
But, that doesn’t mean dating as a senior citizen is impossible.
In fact, there are a lot of pros that come with dating at an older age. For example, people are less concerned with looks and more concerned with making an actual connection. And, the mindset is a lot different- no one is trying to play games with each other. Instead, you’ll find that people are a lot more upfront about what they want.
Nevertheless, you’re probably still a bit nervous about dating again.
Read on to learn 8 pieces of senior citizen dating advice that can make the process easier.
Where to Meet People
If you’re just getting back in the dating game, the first thing you’re probably wondering is where you should go to meet people.
Let’s take a look at the best options:
1. Friends and Family
Friends and family are a great resource for meeting new people, as they know your personality, likes and dislikes. Don’t be shy about asking them if they know someone who would be a good match for you.
And, be sure to attend as many weddings, graduations, sporting events, dance recitals, and other social gatherings as possible. This is a great way to get in contact with a wider number of people and possibly meet your soulmate.
2. Hobbies
Practicing your favorite hobbies is another excellent way to meet somebody.
Think about what you love to do, and then look for some clubs in your area to join. Whether you love golfing, swimming, playing cards, or attending political events, there are always other people out there who love to do the same thing and are also looking to meet other like-minded individuals.
Plus, when you meet someone through a hobby, you already know you have something in common and something you can build off of.
3. Online/Offline Dating Services
Did you know there are dating sites specifically geared towards senior citizens?
With online dating for seniors, all you have to do is sign up, fill out your profile, and then you can begin looking for your soulmate.
But, as with anything online, make sure you exercise caution about where you meet and what information you give out.
If online dating doesn’t sound like your thing, you could also sign up for an offline dating service. With these, someone else acts as your matchmaker and sets you up on a date with someone similar to you.
4. Strike Up a Convo
Sometimes, meeting someone you like is as easy as striking up a conversation in the coffee shop.
Don’t worry, your opening line doesn’t have to sound like Shakespeare. If you see someone who interests you, start by asking something simple and non-threatening. For example, “Are the croissants good here?”
It may sound silly, but sometimes even the simplest of questions turn into lifelong romances.
The First Date
So, you’ve met someone great and you’re going on a first date with them. Congratulations!
Let’s talk about what to expect and what to do on a first date.
5. Dating Destinations
If you’re the one planning the date, you’re probably stressing out about where to go. If you’re feeling stuck, here are some options:
- Dinner and the movie (the classic)
- Picnic in the park
- Museum or art gallery
- Concert
- Wine tasting event (Make sure they drink!)
If you know you share a hobby with the person, you can also suggest that as a first date.
There are also a couple first date destinations you’ll want to avoid. While dinner is great, avoid taking them to a bar just to get drinks (you’re not 25 anymore!). And, don’t take the person to a family gathering, as this can send mixed signals and also put a lot of pressure on them.
6. Expect to Feel Like a Teenager Again
Remember when you’d go on a date as a teenager, and your stomach would be in knots the whole time?
Well, expect to feel that way again when dating as a senior citizen. Even though your life has changed in many ways since you were a teenager, those old feelings are going to be the same.
Your heart will be pounding, you may feel a bit dizzy, and your hands might shake a little. But guess what, that’s a good thing! That means you’re interested in the person and that you care about where things go.
7. Expect to Be Patient
When people are young and naive, they tend to feel like they have all the time in the world and that they can dive head first into things and make all the mistakes they want.
But, when people get older, that impulsivity tends to go away. By now, people have enough life experience to know better than to fall for someone the second they meet them.
So, be patient with the process. And, if someone you like hasn’t expressed their feelings yet, give them time.
8. Expect a Mix of Reactions from Family Members
Ideally, your family will be over the roof if you meet someone you love. But, this isn’t always the case.
For grandkids, the fact that you’re dating someone usually isn’t a big deal. They’ll probably just be thinking, “Yay! Another grandparent! More presents!”
But, if you have grown children, this change can be tough. Some of them may not be as open about you bringing someone new into your life.
To resolve this issue, the best thing to do is to introduce the new person in your life to your family as soon as you’re serious about them. Usually, once they get to know each other, those hesitations will go away.
Senior Citizen Dating: Are You Ready to Get Back in the Game?
Now that you have these pieces of advice in mind, it’s time to start your senior citizen dating journey.
Remember just to have fun with it, and pretty soon, the right person will come along.
As you’re getting older, finding a companion isn’t the only thing you have to worry about. You also need to think about arranging your estate for when you pass. Check out this article for the top estate planning tips.
