Dating is for everyone, but what you do in your 20s will be very different from how dating looks in your 60s. We take a look at 22 things you should and shouldn’t do when finding love later in life.
Do Make Sure It Is What You Want
People in their 60s who are single can often be pushed to find a partner and join dating sites. While sometimes a little gentle encouragement is a good thing, you shouldn’t do anything you’re uncomfortable with.
Don’t Give Out Personal Information Too Soon
Research by Statista has shown that 44 percent of people have been victims of romance scams. There’s lots of advice for young people when chatting with people online, but not so much for older generations. You should provide basic information until you are comfortable knowing a person well enough.
Do Be Open to New Experiences
It can be easy to stick to what is comfortable when meeting new people but try to be open to new opportunities so dating can be fun. If you don’t try new things, like different date activities or a different type of person to date, you will never know what the future holds.
Don’t Be Judgemental
Meeting someone of a similar age when dating in your 60s means that that person has had significant life experience. You should listen to their stories without being too judgemental, as we never truly know what other people have been through.
Do Be Open to Casual Relationships
Some people over 60 may be looking for a long-term partner to settle down with for the rest of their lives, but this isn’t the case for everyone. If you are not ready for a committed relationship, you can explore casual relationships, whether that be friendships or intimate encounters.
Don’t Stay On a Date That Is Making You Feel Uncomfortable
If you start to feel uncomfortable at any point during a date, you should politely tell the other person you want to leave. Dating should feel safe and fun, so you should not put yourself at risk.
Do Try Different Ways of Dating
Dating sites are very popular, with 57.44 million users signed up in the U.S. But online dating is not for everyone. You can explore local dating services or businesses that put on dating nights. Alternatively, you can look at group activities and events that give you the opportunity to meet like-minded people.
Don’t Worry about What People Think
It is easy to be paranoid about what other people think about you dating, especially if you have been in a long-term relationship. But dating is your journey, and you should do what makes you happy.
Do Be Open About Past Relationships
At 60, it is natural for you to have had past relationships, so it is okay to talk about them. You should avoid constantly talking about ex-partners, but you shouldn’t avoid talking about important parts of your life if you feel comfortable when asked questions.
Don’t Wait for the Right Time
If you are considering dating but are waiting for the right time, there may not be a right time. It is natural to feel nervous stepping out into the dating scene, but putting it off could delay your happiness.
Do Reconnect to Your Past
When you start dating again, you might think of past relationships that may be rekindled. Analysis by Social Psychological and Personality Science shows that 66% of couples started as friends, which is a great place to start when looking for companionship.
Don’t Expect Things to Go Perfectly
Dating can be hit and miss, with many first dates not turning out how people want them to. Do not let one bad experience put you off; the next one might be your perfect match.
Do Be Safe When You Meet Someone
When meeting someone for a date, you should always tell someone close to where you are going and your rough plans. Other recommendations include meeting in a public space and video calling before you meet.
Don’t Rush into a Relationship
It can be easy to get ahead of yourself when you start dating, especially when lust is involved. But, you shouldn’t rush into a serious relationship until you know more about the other person.
Do Take Precautions
If you enter a sexual relationship, it is important to be safe. You may not worry about pregnancy in your 60s, but you should still protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections. STDs in the over 60s are on the rise, with gonorrhea, syphilis, and genital herpes bring common risks.
Don’t Compare Dates with Your Exes
While talking about past relationships on a date is okay, you should try not to compare them to past partners. Whether you choose to end the relationship or not, the past should remain in the past. Think about new opportunities your date can bring rather than focusing on their differences.
Do Tell Your Children
Some people struggle to tell their children they are dating again, particularly if a partner has died. Chatting with your family to let them know your plans are best, so they are not surprised.
Don’t Be Afraid of Age Differences
Research by IPSOS shows that 57% of Americans are open to having a relationship with an age gap. While you may have dated people the same age in the past, you can relax and explore the possibilities of a younger or older partner.
Do Emphasize your Strengths
Try to be confident on your date by discussing your hobbies, interests, and accomplishments. It may be difficult at first, but let your date get to know the real you, and who knows how far it can go.
Don’t Don’t Settle For Someone Who Doesn’t Treat You Well
You deserve to be in a happy and respectful relationship, so you should never settle for someone who doesn’t treat you with respect. It can be easy to fall into a relationship that is not good for you when you are feeling lonely, but it could harm you in the long run.
Do Have Fun
The most important thing about dating is having fun. Dates do not have to be boring lunches and dinners; they can be hiking, trips to the theme park, and salsa dancing lessons. Dating should be enjoyable. Relax, be yourself, and enjoy getting to know new people.
Don’t Play Games
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