If you believe that dating in your 60s is impossible, this article is for you. Just because you are getting older doesn’t mean that you can’t find a partner. Growing older is not for the faint-hearted, but that being said, it’s also a privilege many are denied on a daily basis.
Dating after 60 may seem like a completely daunting concept, but this is the time to make the most of the privilege you’ve been given by getting to where you are in your life journey! But, we understand that dating in the later stages of life has its challenges.
With statistically fewer men than women – and a huge change in the dynamic of engagement and connection – where do you even start? If you’re interested in learning more about dating after 60, we highlight a few important things to keep in mind.
Contrary to what you may think, you are still ‘dateable’ after 60! There are plenty of people in the same boat as you, you just need to know where to look.
Dating over 60 comes with its fair share of ups and downs, but what’s most important is a shift in mindset. The dating norms of what you may be accustomed to in your 20s or 30s have long been forgotten. For example, women are encouraged to approach men in their later years of dating.
The great part about dating in your 60s is that some of the insecurities you may have had in your 20s are hopefully long gone, or at least, you are more familiar with them and have become accustomed to how to manage uneasy feelings.
Those jittery nerves spun by a lack of confidence or insecurities somehow manage to trip up young couples throughout the dating world. Hopefully, your priorities have changed with age, and you are not feeling hung-up about finding the perfect parent of your children to-be.
As you reach your 60s, you may also have a pretty good idea of how looks can impact society and your choice of a companion. But more importantly, you may also have the knowledge that being ‘hot’ is more a function of someone’s personality rather than their actual exterior.
Remember that most people in their 60s, who are looking for similar-age partners, judge attractiveness based on personality, compatibility, and character! So, don’t be too hard on yourself.
You have lived out a good part of your life, you have stories to tell and a wealth of knowledge. Use these attributes to relax and enjoy the dating process.
While many people over 60 aren’t as in-tune with social media as most 20-year-olds, it definitely has its advantages when it comes to dating at 60. In reality, social media has opened many a door in terms of establishing a connection with someone from your past or through mutual friends.
The power of social media is also great if you are on the shy side or want to ease your way into the dating world. If you have your eye on someone, try and find out if you can connect with them on social media.
Reach out, strike up a conversation and even practice your flirting skills in the safety of virtual reality to start. Once you are more comfortable and have gotten to know them better, talk over the phone and arrange a face-to-face meeting.
If you are a little more outgoing or prefer ‘old school’ methods of meeting a potential companion, make your way to your local coffee shop or cafe (following all necessary health regulations, of course). This is generally the ideal place to strike up a conversation with someone you may have your eye on if they frequent the same pit-stop as you.
Try not to avoid eye contact, so don’t dive straight into your book as you sit down – if you catch their eye, smile and show that you’re interested. Each time you see them at the same cafe as you, make an effort to smile. You’ll eventually ramp up the courage to break into conversation, or they will!
One of the most valuable dating tips for you in your 60s is to simply keep doing the things you love. This way you are bound to meet someone with common interests.
If you frequent the same museum, theatre, or library, perhaps it’s time to switch it up a bit? You never know who you could bump into in a new museum you start visiting.
Try and explore the arts and culture scene in your area when it’s safe to do so. Attend fundraising events, shows, and gallery openings. There will likely be plenty of opportunities to meet like-minded suitors!
An important aspect of growing older is maintaining your fitness. If you can’t go to the gym just yet, you can try a walk-at-a-distance group.
You are killing two birds with one stone by doing so. You can work on your own fitness, while also boosting your chances of meeting someone with similar interests.
Meeting a partner while exercising has immediate advantages – it means you both take pride in how you look and will have similar energy and fitness levels.
If you’re completely new to the dating world in your 60s and just want to get a feel for what’s out there, then online dating could be your answer. Online dating is nowhere near as cliché as you may think. In fact, it’s one of the best places to start.
Even if you don’t intend on dating someone you’ve met on the Internet, dating sites are the ideal way to find your feet when it comes to putting yourself out there.
Most importantly, having a go at online dating will help you get into the habit of having a conversation with a complete stranger – the more practice you get, the better!
When you reached the age of 55, you noticed how insignificant your actual age became. What comes to the fore is how you feel and your state of mind. This is especially important when it comes to dating in your 60s. The age of your new companion shouldn’t matter all too much any longer.
There are many people who find love in later life every day. If you follow the guidelines in this article and aspire to the philosophies outlined, you can certainly be one of them.
Have you decided to get into the dating game again in your 60s? What has worked for you or someone that you know? Are there any tips or strategies you could share with the community? Please do so in the comments below.
Tags Senior Dating Advice