Why online dating can be more fun for the Over 60s 💻👫
Are you over 60 and looking into the world of dating but unsure where to start? Did you know that older adults are one of the fastest-growing demographics using online dating services and are having a lot of fun doing so?
You may be thinking the online dating stratosphere is more suited to people in their 20’s and 30’s, but with the experience, confidence and at a stage of life where you’re less worried about what others think, it’s the perfect time to experience what’s fun about online dating.
While online sites and apps might seem unnatural, dating norms have changed, and meeting people online is more common for all ages (especially during a pandemic). But, like many things in life, the level of fun is enjoyed only by what you put into it. Recent survey results suggest that many older people are less worried about long-term relationships and more excited to try something new; they are placing joy into what could otherwise be an uncertain time.
Additionally, many of those same participants say online dating is not only enjoyable but is an excellent way of trying something new that you’re yet to experience – which is exciting in itself.
So what are some of the aspects of why the over 60s are enjoying the online dating scene?
Meeting new people from anywhere, at any time
Dating online opens you up to a whole new world. It’s a place where you have the opportunity to meet people that you wouldn’t otherwise get to. You don’t have to rely on trying to meet people when out (especially during lockdown), and it gives you access to more people looking for a relationship or companionship. You don’t need to be living in the same area when you first meet. Some relationships take time to develop. And some people are more open to relocating when the time is right. It opens up a lot more doors when you’re not restricted to close proximity – or at least you have the option there.
Fewer expectations that comes with more life experience
This isn’t to say that you don’t know what you want in a relationship or that you’re willing to settle for anyone. The pressure is taken off by expecting less of a partner as we get older because you both have more life experience and know what works and what doesn’t. And by 60, most are semi-retired or working less hours, so work commitments aren’t in the way, providing more free time to get to know each other. Less pressure = more fun!
Finding what you’re looking for without the hassles
Another great aspect of online dating sites is the filters offered. Similar to geographic location where you can choose your desired proximity to your postcode, online sites also let you select particular attributes, preferences and more. Depending on how sophisticated the dating site is (or if you become a premium member), some offer more bells and whistles – such as matchmaking or extended reach. Perhaps you want to connect with someone that enjoys exercise, or reading, or the crossword. Or your ‘special someone’ is open to or enjoys caravanning and boating. Some have height preferences or specific interests. The filters can be endless – but be careful as a super refined filter may limit the number of results.
Getting to know you more
There is a level of anonymity with online dating that you don’t get in person. You can decide how much you share before your first date and get a sense of whether that person might be someone you want to spend more time getting to know. Dating sites can provide an extra layer of privacy, allowing you to choose how much about yourself you want to share, including your profile photo and preferences. And if someone does pester you, you can easily block them and move on.
More freedom to be yourself
Regardless of how you get into the dating scene, doing so online gives you a little more freedom to be yourself. There’s a level of awkwardness that can come with those first few times out together. However, by being yourself on your online profile, you will attract people to the real you, imperfections included. So when, or if you meet in person, you get to have more fun with less uncertainty because they know the real you – and vice versa!
Peace of mind to decline (if in doubt)
Whilst this is not listed under the ‘fun’ aspect of dating, another benefit of online dating is having the option to not meet up with someone you’re still not sure about. That extra layer of security behind the internet, allows you to decline meeting face-to-face if you have any doubts. And let’s be honest, having not yet met in person makes it a little easier to decline continued contact. There is no joy in deciding to meet up with someone that you don’t feel comfortable with.
The experience of online dating is different for everyone and often has a lot to do with how much you put into it. The best way to enjoy the experience is to be yourself. Maybe the sparks will fly, and perhaps they won’t, and that’s perfectly fine too – because the dating scene can be a whole lot of fun. You don’t have to be so serious, especially when starting out, find the enjoyment in it.
Personal Connections Classifieds • Online + FREE
Join in the fun today & post your ad today! ❤️
To celebrate the launch of our Personal Connections Classifieds we are posting all ads for FREE. It takes less than 3 minutes to post an ad. What have you got to lose?
Our online classifieds are a fun, safe and secure place to meet other Over-60s. You don’t need to be a member or create an account to post your ad or to reply to an ad.
