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10 Tips on Changing Your Perspective on Aging and Its Impact on Dating

By Andrea McGinty May 02, 2024 Dating

Age is not just about the number of years you’ve lived or your physical appearance. It’s about your mindset and your perspective on aging. As someone who has been assisting people in their online dating journey for almost three decades, I’ve come across various perceptions of age and its influence on dating. It’s fascinating to see women in their late 60s looking like they’re in their 50s, men in their 60s appearing older than their age, and men in their 70s looking younger than expected.

Some singles proudly state on their dating profiles, “Even though I’m 68, people often mistake me for 55.” But let’s be real here, we all age, and that’s something to embrace and respect. Aging brings wisdom and life experience, not baggage. It’s something to be cherished.

So, how can you maintain a youthful spirit, mindset, and appearance? Here are some tips and common traits I’ve observed in people who not only look great for their age but also find success in online dating.

1. Expand Your Social Circle

Don’t confine yourself to the same group of friends. Meeting new people keeps life exciting and adds a fresh perspective.

2. Plan an Annual Adventure to a New Destination

Exploring new places keeps life interesting and satisfies your adventurous side. While it’s tempting to revisit your favorite spots, there’s something special about discovering a new culture.

3. Consider Getting a Pet

Studies have shown that having a pet can contribute to a youthful mindset. Personally, waking up to a cheerful golden retriever who eagerly awaits breakfast brings me joy. Moreover, taking my dog Luna for a walk along the beach has not only made us both happy but has also led to unexpected friendships.

4. Embrace Your Age with Confidence

So many people shy away from revealing their age. It’s absolutely ridiculous! Own it and be proud of how far you’ve come in life!

5. Mindful Exercise and Eating

Not only does mindful exercise give us a boost of endorphins, but it also helps us maintain a strong and healthy body. Who doesn’t feel amazing after a 3-mile walk, a yoga class, weight training, Pilates, or a tennis match? Yes, you are what you eat, but that doesn’t mean you can’t indulge in a treat day every now and then. Personally, my weakness is donuts, but I don’t have them every day.

6. Embrace Blue Zone Lifestyle Techniques

I’m a huge fan of the Blue Zones and love reading about them. I used to live near Loma Linda in California, which is the only Blue Zone in the US. People there age gracefully and live happily. Blue Zones are geographic areas with lower rates of chronic diseases and longer, active life expectancies.

Want to know the secret? Well, it’s like a fountain of youth, seriously! In the Blue Zones, people have strong communities, practice rest and relaxation through meditation and mindfulness, and follow the 80% rule when it comes to eating. There’s more to it, but I’ll let you explore that on your own!

7. Take Care of Your Skin, Wear Sunscreen, and Stay Hydrated

Gone are the days of slathering baby oil on our skin to get a tan. I’ll admit, I’m a bit of a product junkie, and I never leave the house without sunscreen, even on cloudy days. And moisturizer is a must. Oh, and don’t forget to drink plenty of water! Our bodies are mostly made up of water, and staying hydrated helps us look and feel great.

8. Stay Curious and Keep Learning

We should never stop learning, no matter our age. There’s so much to gain from other people, books, traveling, and trying new things. When you’re on a date, ask questions and embrace the differences between you and the other person. I always say that you’ll get bored with someone who’s just like you.

I have clients who are excited about going on second and third dates because they’re trying new activities like trivia nights or pickleball games. It all adds up to you being a more well-rounded and interesting person.

9. Have a Tight-Knit Group of Friends Who Can Support You

However, it’s also important to take care of yourself. Sometimes, you may need to let go of a friendship if it brings negativity or constant complaining into your life.

10. Dressing Nicely Is Something I Strongly Believe In

It doesn’t have to be expensive, but having a nice wardrobe for dates can make a difference. Consider getting help from a personal shopper at a trusted store like Nordstrom. They can push you out of your comfort zone and give you a fresh look.

Just remember, we’re not talking about dressing like a contestant on a reality show. Some of those outfits were just ridiculous and showed a lack of confidence in embracing the aging process.

Bonus Tip

Ladies, update your hairstyle and use makeup lightly. You can even get a free makeover at the cosmetic counter!

This isn’t about trying to find the fountain of youth. It’s about taking better care of yourself and increasing your chances of meeting the right person.

Are you happy with your dating life? If so, that’s great! I’m happy for you. But if you’re not satisfied, let’s take action. If you’re serious about finding a life companion, reach out to me here. We can set up a 15-minute call to see if I can help and if we’re a good fit.

Throughout my career, I’ve assisted thousands of people and have been responsible for over 6,000 marriages. And if you’re not interested in marriage, but just want a long-term, happy relationship, I’m good at those too!

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Do you think you are too old to date? What is your circle of friends like: supportive or complaining? What new activities have you tried this year?

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Lynn

And nothing but old codgers looking for a nurse and purse. Some with oxygen cannulas in their dating profiles. No thanks. Better to stick with a dog and be a codger dodger.

Kimber

Hilarious! thanks for a laugh this morning Lynn!

The Author

Andrea McGinty is the founder of It’s Just Lunch dating service. She sold it and founded 33000Dates.com so she could help singles navigating online dating. In the 2020s, she knows the best way to meet people is through online dating using a professional coach and specializes in singles in their 50s-70s!

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