No, your dating life does not end at 30… nor at 50, for that matter! But if you have been out of the game for a while, getting back into dating and navigating the world of online dating sites can feel extremely daunting.
Luckily, with the right strategies, you can put yourself out there, keep safe, and have fun while looking for the perfect match! Get started with the tips below.
Be Clear About Your Expectations and Priorities
With over 323 million people using dating apps worldwide, your choice will be nearly endless. But sifting through such a large number of potential dates might be frustrating and time-consuming! That is why before diving into the world of online dating, it is important to be clear about what your goals, expectations, and priorities are.
If you are unsure about what to look for in a potential match, take some time for self-reflection, evaluate your priorities, and be clear on the values that matter to you.
Don’t be too strict about what “your type” should look like, though! Instead, keep an open mindset that will allow you to meet people from all backgrounds and walks of life!
Additionally, it is crucial to prioritize the safety terms when using dating apps. Always research the privacy terms, and trust your instincts and be cautious when sharing personal information or meeting someone in person for the first time. Some resources like reviews like review on eHarmony for seniors which can highlight any potential security concerns or privacy issues especially important to consider when sharing personal information online. It is recommended to communicate through the app’s messaging system initially and schedule your first date in a public place. It is also essential to have realistic expectations about the online dating experience. Finding a compatible match may take time, and it is important to be patient and not get discouraged by rejection. Remember, the goal is to find someone who aligns with your values, interests, and lifestyle, not to simply find a quick hookup.
Try Out Free Dating Sites to Get Started
With over 8000 dating sites in operation around the world, choosing the right platform for your needs is all but easy. After all, each platform or app will have a specific audience, features, and characteristics.
If you are unsure which apps will work best for you, you can enjoy the best online dating experience ‘free of charge’ and without commitment by signing up for free sites or taking advantage of free trials. This strategy can help you test out niche dating sites such as SeniorMatch, OurTime, and Singles50 without having to deal with costly subscriptions or memberships.
Protect Yourself From Sweetheart Scams and Bad Actors
Although reputable dating sites boast a wide range of safety features users can rely on, online dating scams are still as common as ever. In particular, senior users are the main target of sweetheart scams, which, just in 2020, have caused an average of $9,475.80 in losses among adults aged 70+.
Luckily, avoiding these scams is easier than you’d think! Just make sure to watch out for common online dating profile red flags, only use reputable dating websites, and don’t send or receive money until you are sure that you can trust your date. And, of course, listen to your instincts!
Spend Time Crafting the Right Online Profile
Your online dating profile can make or break your chances of finding the right match – that’s why spending time crafting an intentional and trustful profile should be your top priority!
When choosing what to write in your description or what profile photo to upload, make sure that the portrayal you are designing reflects your personality, lifestyle, and hobbies. Although you might want to show the best version of yourself to potential dates, it is important to stay true to who you are and avoid creating false impressions.
Start With a Mini-Date in a Safe Place
Although it might be tempting to set up a date a few minutes after matching with an attractive or interesting person, don’t forget that safety should always come first! With all types of individuals populating today’s online dating websites, it is more important than ever to have all the precautions in place to safeguard your personal and sensitive information.
A great way to do so is to set up a “screening” day before your actual date. For example, you might choose to meet at a local coffee shop that represents a safe place for you or engage in a 15 to 30-minute video call before deciding to go ahead and set up a date.
And, don’t forget to keep the conversation light! Save deeper topics for later on, when you get to know each other better.
Spend a Few Hours Each Day Finding the Right Match
Although finding a partner should not feel like a job, keep in mind that finding the right person, engaging in conversations, and setting up dates is a time-consuming effort! Be prepared for what’s ahead and make sure to spend a few minutes each day on your preferred dating app.
Shared Interests Are Important – But Value Differences!
Finding a person you can share your interests and hobbies with is certainly important, but don’t pigeonhole potential dates! Through their public profiles, you can check whether there is an affinity with your own lifestyle, but it is only by getting to know someone that you can truly understand whether they would be a great partner for your needs.
What’s more, before picking a date, make sure to look beyond their interests, personality, or hobbies! Indeed, for how hard you’ll try to leave your baggage at the door, dating after the age of 50 means that you’ll also have to deal with a person’s formed lifestyle, profession, financial situation, and family responsibilities. Make sure that a potential date’s background and lifestyle fits your own future goals!
Put Yourself out There and Have Fun!
Online dating can be stressful, overwhelming, and, with rejections always around the corner, even frustrating. On the other hand, meeting new people and building new relationships can be both inspiring and exciting, and it can help you renew your purpose in life.
So, although finding a partner might not be a quick or easy process, make sure to have fun and make the most of your dating life!