If you’re considering stepping into the world of online dating as a 50-something, then you’re probably feeling a heady mix of excitement and apprehension! Although it can be nerve-wracking, putting yourself out there, ready to meet new people, and – hopefully – finding someone special is also a wonderful adventure in which you’ll have the chance to make connections and even learn more about yourself along the way.
Below we explore how to get started if you’re in your 50s and new to online dating, and share some tips to help smooth your path to love!
Find the Right Dating App
Firstly, it’s important to be aware that there are many dating apps and sites out there, and so you need to find the one that suits you best. Some platforms are geared towards casual connections, so avoid these if you’re looking for a long-term, serious relationship.
There are dating apps available that have been designed specifically for certain groups of people to help them find like-minded potential partners; these include platforms for single parents and professionals. Similarly, you may want to consider an app created for those aged 50 and over to help you meet your special someone.
A platform like Silver Singles is easy to use and designed purely with the over 50s in mind, who are looking for either love or companionship. This app’s in-depth personality test that new members take upon sign-up makes for highly compatible matches and great results!
Be Confident in Who You Are Now
Online dating can, at times, be difficult, and feelings of rejection can creep in and knock our self-esteem. Before getting started, it’s vital to know your worth and to understand that, with so many profiles available on the average dating app, not matching with a person that we’d like to, or having a message go unanswered, isn’t the big deal that it may feel like at the time.
Remember that, until you’ve met in person a few times, the individual represented by the profile hasn’t been lucky enough to meet you yet, and so doesn’t know you – therefore, the rejection isn’t personal.
To this end, be sure to use photos that accurately portray you – don’t be tempted to use filters, profile shots, or pictures that feature obscuring light. As with all dating profiles, your best chance of success is to have your main picture as a clear, head-on photo that shows you in all your wonderful, unique loveliness.
Write a Brilliant Bio
To get the most suitable matches on a dating app, be sure to complete your bio in full. Use this section to detail your personality traits, your interests, and life experiences. And if you can inject a little humor, this is always a good thing! Your bio is your introduction to a potential partner, so make it stand out and fill it with personality.
Embrace your age by showcasing your experiences and achievements to date – and write about your goals for the future or the adventures you’re looking forward to having over the coming years.
Remain Open and Optimistic
The extra precious life experience, however, usually means that we’re carrying a little more emotional baggage with us in our 50s than we were lugging around in our 20s. You may have a divorce or separation in your past or a partner who passed away. It’s unrealistic to think that you’ll be able to approach dating with a ‘clean slate,’ but it is important to try to enter the process with an open mind and a willingness to connect.
It’s also worth being prepared for any questions about your past that, quite naturally, you might be asked over the course of a date. And don’t forget, it’s totally acceptable to politely say something along the lines of: ‘that’s a discussion for another time.’
Stay Safe
And most importantly, staying safe is just as important in your 50s as it was in your younger years, especially with the prevalence of ‘romance’ scams that are doing the rounds right now. If you’re messaging with someone, be wary if things seem to get serious very quickly or if you’re being pushed to meet much sooner than you’re comfortable with. If you’re ever in any doubt or feel uncomfortable, then cease communicating and, if necessary, report the person to the app’s administrators.
Meeting up for a date is exciting! Take some time to make sure things are safe, though, so that you can relax during the meeting and concentrate on having a good time. To this end, only initially meet in a public place that you know well and that’s well frequented. Let a trusted friend know where you’re going and when you plan to be back. And if at any point during the date you feel uneasy, or your gut instincts are giving off a warning, then get to safety – don’t worry about being rude.
Using an age-specific dating app is a great way to meet new people and begin a journey of romance. Be confident, keep things in perspective, and enjoy the adventure ahead!
