Online Dating for Seniors

Friend and family are important for any aging senior, but sometimes even those bonds aren’t enough.  Many seniors today, and especially women, experience the death of their spouse, and while moving-on can often be difficult, sometimes it can also be the best thing.

Still, the prospect of dating online can be intimidating for any senior, no matter what previous life experiences they can draw on.  Below are a number of things that any senior contemplating the online dating world should know.

• Stay private.  Don’t divulge too much information to anyone you haven’t met yet.  Many people out there today are trying to scam seniors through online dating websites.  Be wary of giving out anything more than state or province in which you live.  Many other people on dating sites will try to use their services for free.  Be cautious about providing your private email to these freeloaders.

• But be honest.  No one wants to be duped by a fake profile picture.  Don’t lie about your age  or what you look like.  After all, how would you feel if it was done to you?  Being honest and up-front about who you are will ensure that you and others have successful online dating experiences.

• You are your profile.  Don’t rush this important snapshot of who you are.  Many seniors think it’s not that important to put a lot about yourself on the internet.  Any talk with the grandkids will set you straight on that, however.  Providing as much information as you can about your likes and dislikes will go a long way in helping you find the right suitor, or turning the wrong ones away.

• Be Clear.  Being clear and upfront about what kind of relationship you expect early on is a great way to ensure you’ll have a successful online dating experience.  Many seniors are looking for a new spouse, but if you’re just looking for someone to play pinnacle with on the weekend, be clear about it.

• Be Wary.  If you get a lot of questions through chat or email, but very few answers in return, start putting up the red flags.  Anyone who is not forthcoming in ways you would expect could be other than who they say they are.

• Be Suspicious.  Does anyone come up to you on the street and ask you for your bank number?  They’re not going to do so in an online dating community either.  If anyone is prodding you for certain specifics about your life, and especially anything that might lead to your bank account, you’re probably being set-up.

• Have Fun.  While it may sound like there are more pitfalls than pleasures when it comes to the online dating world of seniors, that just isn’t the case.  Many couples have met through internet sites, and there are countless lasting relationships that attest to their value.  Use common sense and take your time and you’ll find that online dating is a wonderful experience.