Depending on your age, you could have given up on the quest for love. And you’re not alone.
Statistics show that only 14 percent of seniors are describing themselves to be in a dating relationship. Researchers also found out that dating contributed to both social and health benefits later on in life – two additional reasons why you shouldn’t give up.
Internet has simplified the dating game and it has increased the number of matches in the 50+ age categories. Unsurprisingly, seniors are starting to embrace those opportunities. A recent survey suggests that 19 percent of the people in the 50 to 64 age group have tried an online dating app. The same applies to 13 percent of those in the 65+ age group. This brings the grand total of seniors who have tried online dating to 32 percent of all seniors.
If you’re one of the people who haven’t gotten the courage to try online dating yet, you should definitely work on changing your attitude. Mature dating in a digital world is much easier than you may think, especially if you follow a couple of simple rules.
Explore Mature Online Dating Apps
There are apps and dating websites out there that have been created especially for the needs of a more mature audience.
If you want to date within your age range, trying such a specialized app may be your safest bet. DoULikeSenior is just one of the possibilities put together for a more mature audience looking for love.
Alternatively, go for a general dating website and input your age and the age preferences for a potential partner. Trying both of these online dating approaches will make it easier for you to reach a big number of people who will be interested in meeting someone like you.
Focus on Safety
Depending on your computer and internet literacy levels, online dating can get a bit tricky.
Your primary focus should be on safety. There are dating scams out there and these could cost you a lot, both emotionally and financially. Thus, educating yourself before getting started is one of the keys to embracing the safest practices.
Internet safety, how to select the right dating app and what information to feature in your profile are some of the things to know after 60. Asking one of your kids to help is a good idea. Alternatively, you can join a class to learn a bit more about digital technologies and communication methods.
Some of the essentials to remember when doing online dating include never giving out your address, your social security number or your financial information (bank account, credit card number) to strangers. Scammers are looking for vulnerable individuals on dating sites. Protect your privacy and always opt for reputable online platforms to avoid some of the common digital dangers.
Take It Slow
Social media and dating apps are characterized by immediacy of the experience.
Once you sign up, you’ll potentially get matches and responses in a matter of minutes or hours.
The excitement and the casual nature of online communication could make you rush things. Don’t do that – people tend to present a specific side of their personality online. Before jumping into something you will regret later on, take some time to get to know the other person well.
Don’t Give Up and Don’t Settle
Just because you have reached a certain age doesn’t mean you should settle for the first person that decides to send you a message online.
Know your criteria for a partner, know your deal breakers and don’t make a compromise with your values or beliefs.
Sometimes, discovering a soulmate or a new friend can be an ongoing process. It’s ok to talk to numerous people. That’s one of the best characteristics of online dating. The online anonymity, however, creates a false sense of intimacy. If you don’t discuss the serious topics, you may find yourself falling for someone that you know very little about.
So, don’t choose the first person you’ve come in contact with because you’re afraid nobody else is going to get in touch with you. The number of single seniors is increasing all the time. There are plenty of fish in the sea and your ideal match is somewhere out there.
Have Fun
Finally, remember that you shouldn’t feel threatened by new technologies, by the immediacy and directness of online communication.
These new tools give you so many chances to overcome loneliness and get to know someone special. Remember to have a bit of fun, even if everything seems to be somewhat confusing when you’re getting started.
If time has passed and you’re still not comfortable with online dating, you may want to explore some alternative approaches for meeting people. There’s no need to give up on traditional dating just because the technologies are out there.