Is mature dating worth the trouble? Over the last few years, I have been asked this question by so many women in our community. When we’re young, dating seems to be mostly about physical attraction and emotional attachment. But, by the time we reach our 60s, we tend to have a different perspective on romance.

For starters, many of us have been hurt before. Even those of us who have survived our previous relationships relatively unscathed, have a great deal of romantic experience to draw on.

This can be both a blessing and a curse. On the one hand, we know what our own values and interests are. This helps us to know what to look for in a partner. On the other hand, it’s easy to be too picky when it comes to over 60 dating.

I hope that you enjoy this mature dating interview with Lisa Copeland!

What’s More Important – Common Values or Common Interests?

One of the biggest questions that we face as we start dating as an older adult is what to look for in a partner. For example, is it better to find someone who shares your values and other core beliefs? Or, should you try to find someone who likes to do the same things that you do?

Obviously, there are no “right” or “wrong” answers here. At the same time, I thought that it might be useful to talk to someone who has helped hundreds of people to find love after 60. By talking about these relationships – including what worked and what didn’t – perhaps we can get some general guidance.

In this interview, dating coach, Lisa Copeland and I discuss whether values or interests are more important in relationships after 60. So, is it important for both to love ballet and hiking, or have common ground in their attitudes towards sex, children, honesty, integrity, religion, cleanliness, education, you name it (or ask Lisa to email you the list).

Based on her experience with other couples, Lisa says that, generally speaking, values are more important than interests. In fact, having different interests can give you plenty of things to talk about and help to keep your relationship interesting. There are exceptions to this rule. For example, if one partner is interested in sex and the other isn’t, this can create a rift between them. But, generally speaking, values and personality simply matter more.

Have you tried dating after 60? What was your experience? Did you meet any interesting people? What questions would you like to ask Lisa about how to get the most from mature dating? Please join the conversation.