Dating in your Golden Years

For many people who are looking for love in their 50s and onwards, dating can be a rather daunting experience. Whether you are single as a result of bereavement, divorce or a split from a long-term relationship, going back to your 'courting' years may not be something that you are looking forward to.

On the other hand, living alone can get make you feel lonely and isolated at times, and although it may be decades since you even thought about dating, finding someone to spend your time with could be just what the doctor ordered!

One thing that may help to boost your confidence is the fact that there are thousands of people out there who are in the same boat. Over 6 million people sign-up to dating agencies every year and over 50s are some of the most popular members. So don't despair!

Healthylife editor Claire Reed takes a look at the options and points out some of the easiest ways to success whether you are looking for long-term romance or just friendship.


What are the options?

Online dating has literally taken the dating scene by storm and is now the most popular form of dating. In the same way that we shop online, looking for love on the internet is now becoming increasingly acceptable as more and more people sign-up to online dating sites. Although internet dating once carried a certain amount of stigma with reservations about those who visited chat rooms and dating sites, being single and searching for friendship, love and even sex is now a somewhat widespread phenomenon.

Nonetheless, good old fashioned 'offline' dating remains a popular choice for many people, however, this option is often a more difficult and lengthy process as it relies on a the prospect of chance and fate in meeting with someone who is suitable, face to face. However, don't give up; you may find that the certain someone that you are looking for is just around the corner. Many people meet through friends, which can be a great ice-breaker an ideal way to get introduced to a like-minded person.

Which kind of dating is best for you?

Whichever option you go for, it has to be the right choice for you. Traditional dating often requires more confidence, as everything takes place face-to-face, which some people may find quite nerve-wracking. You may be a confident person, but dating is something which is normally out of our comfort zones. On the other hand, online dating can be a good idea if you think that your nerves could get the better of you and may even prevent you from meeting someone and progressing things into a long-term relationship. By signing-up to an online dating site, you have the opportunity to add a picture and write everything you would like to say and others to know about you on your profile. Likewise, you can do the same with others and introduce yourself via informal emails and maybe even phone calls before meeting.