Dating Tips for People in their 50's and 60's

Source: rocket50

Date:   February 17, 2023

How to date in your 50s and 60s

Who says love never gets old? Recent statistics support that claim. According to 2020 statistics, 27% of men aged 50-64 are single, while 29% of women within the same age group are looking for a partner.

It is unfortunate that there is such a high percentage of singles out there, but that has not translated into a healthy dating scene, romantic relationships, or marriages. 75% of singles surveyed in one study stated that for a variety of reasons, it’s very tough to date in the modern world.

But let’s consider for a moment how we might leverage all of our wisdom that comes with being older and apply this to dating.

Take the Time to Consider What Is Your Ideal Date

Before swiping right on your dating app, take the time to note down what are the characteristics you desire in someone you would like to meet. I don’t mean that you should describe the ideal person that everyone is looking for, but rather who is really the right person for this stage of your life? What type of person would be complementary to your personality type? What set of characteristics  would fit best with your kids or other family members?

You’re more likely to have a pleasant dating experience if you know what you want from an ideal date.

For instance, some people would like partners who would like to socialize because they would like to go to more social events with someone who also likes to be out with other people.

Typically, you’d want a list of five “must haves” for your dates to set them apart from the rest. 

Conversely, you can list five “deal breakers” that’ll help you screen out the wrong dates. These can include things like smoking, no interest in fitness, laziness, or untidiness.

The Tight Five

The first impression matters whether you’re trying to win a business contract or the heart of a man or woman you’re interested in. In stand-up comedy, comics refer to the “tight five,” a series of well-placed anecdotes and jokes that set them up for the rest of the show.

Just like the “tight five” that helps ease the stress for stand-up comics, you should have a light, prepped conversation that lets you settle down into the date. Typically, the conversation in the beginning might surround your interests with ample time for your date to react and lead the discussion in their desired direction.

Don’t forget to ask questions and really listen to  your date’s responses. This is the best way to get them to open up so that you can really find out if they are the right person for you.

Prepping for your date doesn’t get rid of the butterflies buzzing in your stomach. Everyone gets anxious about meeting a new person. Being pleasant and engaging from the get-go will lighten up the mood, reduce the tension on your date’s side, and set the stage for an enjoyable  time.

Dating Sites for Over 50s

It is impossible to ignore online dating in the modern world. Despite its downfalls, it remains one of the most successful ways to meet new people.

Dating sites have typically been the staple for millennials and younger singles. However, several dating sites for mature men and women have cropped up, offering a more conducive space to find love in your ‘50s and ‘60s.

Most websites are free. However, joining a subscription-based service can get a more tailored experience. Check out 17 Best Dating Sites for Over 50s Looking for Love for some ideas. 

These sites attract older singles who share similar opinions on world events and politics. Therefore, you’re sure you’ll quickly hit it off with a potential date you’ll find on the site.

Engage in a New Hobbies

Your ‘50s and ‘60s offer the perfect time to engage in new hobbies. You can learn new skills or join activities that will improve your mental wellbeing and sense of purpose. Good mental health at this stage of our lives does a lot to reduce the future risk of dementia.

But, better yet, it improves your chances of finding love and being more relatable to your date. Connecting with like-minded people who share similar hobbies and are part of a larger community makes it more fun.

Some of these activities might include hiking,  boating, cooking, book groups, or volunteering.

Whatever hobby you choose to enage in depends on your interests. However, it is often a good idea to pick something with a strong social aspect that will introduce you to many new faces.

Refresh Your Wardrobe

Swag might be a term used by the young, but it’s an essential part of dating that will enhance your chances of meeting a new partner.

Start by shopping for stylish, well-fitting items that make you look and feel fantastic. Instead of throwing your old clothes in the bin, you can bundle them to the charity shop and fill the new space with high quality non-work wear essentials.

To get ideas for what to purchase, scan the fashion magazines or online articles for inspiration. Then shop for pieces of clothing that you can mix and match into your existing wardrobe. Look for ideas from photos of people that are similar to you in age and body type.

Dressing well does more than make you stand out. It also boosts your self-confidence, improving the impression you’ll leave on your date.

If you’re clueless about fashion, you can always get your friend's advice or  hire a professional stylist or shopper.

Don’t Forget about the Old-Fashion Way of Meeting people

Although the dating scene has massively evolved over the years, introducing new concepts like online dating - traditional values and dating practices should not be thrown out of the window.  As you grapple with the modern demands of finding a partner, also put some of your eggs in the conventional basket and look for a date the “old fashion” way such as having friends and family introduce you to potential dates, going to work outings, or joining meetup groups to find a match.

Give Yourself Time to Heal

Maybe you’ve recently become single due to divorce or the loss of a partner. Before diving into the dating scene and ending up in a rebound relationship, take some time and heal from the hurt. Rebound relationships often add more pain even to younger, more experimental couples enduring a heartbreak.

In your ‘50s and ‘60s, it is your opportunity to find someone that you may have wished to have had earlier in your life. Someone that truly fits into your life today and for the rest of your years.

Be Active in Online Communities

Online dating sites do a tremendous job linking you up to potential dates. But you don’t have to rely on them or matchmaking sites solely. Online communities are another great way to communicate with like-minded individuals and potentially find a partner with whom you have much in common.

Rocket50 is for the people who love the idea of being switched on and tuned in the later stage of life. Grow your skills, increase your confidence and discover what’s next for you.  Join our 50+ community and partner with us every step of the way. Let’s spark a movement. Together.