Exploring New Romance as a Senior

To many, new romance and relationships are something best left to the younger generations. This, however, couldn’t be further from the truth. There are single individuals of all ages looking to build relationships—including older adults. No matter your reason for exploring new romance as a senior, this exciting experience should be celebrated, especially around Valentine’s Day.

If you’re nervous about getting back into the world of dating for the first time in a while, make an effort to stay safe while having fun.

How is exploring new romance as a senior different?

More likely than not, your priorities have shifted since the last time you dipped your toe in the dating pool. It’s less likely that you are dating with the goal of something casual or “playing games” (though there is no shame in it if you are!). More often than not, seniors are looking for a companion to share interests and time with.

Your lifestyle may have more of an impact on your dating life than you may realize. At a younger age, you may have been more willing to bend to the whims of a partner. Now that you’re older, however, you are comfortable in your standard of living and know exactly what it is you want. That can affect the type of person you develop a romantic relationship with.

Even your avenues of dating may differ from what they once were. These days, online dating is one of the most common ways to meet a potential suitor. There are even dating sites specifically tailored for older adults, such as OurTime and SilverSingles. They may take a moment to figure out how to navigate but are generally seen as great resources for meeting new people.

Important rules to keep in mind

When starting a new relationship, there are certain golden rules those of all ages should keep in mind so everyone feels safe and secure. These rules are not only to your benefit, but the benefit of your potential romantic interest.

Set boundaries and stick to them

Before you set out on your first date, it is important you set boundaries for yourself. These can be anything from not meeting up with your date after the sun sets, to not kissing on the first date, to making phone calls instead of texting. Whatever these boundaries are, share them with the person you are seeing early so they don’t feel blindsided by anything they may not like. If someone disagrees with your boundaries, it is a good sign that it’s time to move on.

Meet in public first

Whether you met online or were connected by mutual friends, your first date should always be in a public location. Select a location that is convenient to both of you and let a loved one know when you’re going.  Cafes, parks, or restaurants are great locations for your first date. Once you get to know them and grow comfortable your dates can move to more intimate locations—just don’t be pressured to move faster than you’d like.

Never give or send any money

While the senior dating scene is bursting with exciting opportunities, there are unfortunately opportunities for bad too. Dating scams targeting seniors are commonplace, especially on dating apps. Be wary of anyone telling you about their poor financial situation right off the bat, particularly via messaging apps. It is possible the person you matched with is not the person they are claiming to be.

How is this possible? It is all too easy to download someone else’s photos on social media, steal their name, and pretend to be them. So, if someone you’ve been talking to asks for money, move on to someone new.

Ask a friend or family member

If the world of online dating is too daunting, it doesn’t have to be your only option. Ask your loved ones if they know anyone who is looking to start dating. When connected to another person via a friend or family member, there is automatically a deeper level of trust, as you know they wouldn’t have recommended a terrible person.

Help at home so you can focus on what is important

As we age, it’s common to need assistance around the home to live life to the fullest. With the compassionate and personalized support of an at-home caregiver, you can focus on what is most important to you in life.

With Home Care Powered by AUAF, our care extends beyond physical well-being. Our caregivers proudly provide a pillar of emotional support that enables seniors to nurture their relationships with confidence. From aiding in daily activities to offering companionship, home care services help create a life where you can flourish.

If you think you could benefit from the support of an at-home caregiver, give us a call at (773) 274-9262. We are happy to assist in whatever way we can.