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The modern dating world might have changed a lot since you were last in it, but that’s no reason to be put off. No matter the age, everyone deserves love and companionship should they desire it!
What’s different for you now? (Benefits of dating in yours 50s)
- You know what you want: what you expect from a relationship, things you are and are not willing to compromise on.
- Knowing yourself more: understand how you communicate, what your boundaries are, not feeling the urge to pretend to be someone you’re not.
- Less pressure: compared to your 20s and 30s, there might have been the pressure to find the perfect ‘one’, build a home or start a family with, perhaps you can now have more opportunities to focus on yourself, having fun and enjoying one another’s company.
Tips for dating
- Don’t put too much pressure on yourself. You may be entering the dating scene after a long break or coming out, so you might feel overwhelmed at the beginning. Be honest with yourself or even share that you’re feeling nervous when on your dates. Most importantly, remember to be kind to yourself.
- Give it time. Not every date is going to go great and some relationships will take time to nurture and see if it works.
- Be yourself. Be honest about who you are. Be proud and celebrate how unique, special and what you have to offer.
- Enjoy it! There can be so much pressure around everything going perfectly, but sometimes, the best dates are the silly ones you can laugh about. Enjoy getting to meet new people, hearing about different experiences and what people have to offer.
Where to meet people?
With modern dating, finding groups, social events, single’s holidays or dating apps to meet people has never been easier!
- Dating apps. Social media and the internet has made it easier to meet people. There are apps and websites specifically designed for people over the age of 50 to meet, including ‘Our Time’ and ‘eHarmony’.
- Groups or social events. If dating apps aren’t your thing, that’s okay! There are alternative ways to meet people at social events, such as using ‘MeetUp’ or ‘OutSavvy’. It’s always worthwhile to check your local community centres where they have social events or groups.
- Singles holiday. If you feel like travelling is more your thing, there are organisations like ‘Solo Holidays’ or ‘Explore’.
- Joining retirement communities. You may have many reasons as to why you want to move to a retirement community, but often these are spaces to meet people and be a part of a community.
- Asking friends or family to help you. Ask your friends or family for advice, such as creating a dating profile or information for where to meet people. There are even apps that are designed for friends to make your dating profile, like ‘My Single Friend’.
Staying safe
- Use secure and verified websites and dating apps
- Communicate with people over verified apps so you can easily report and block
- Be cautious about sending money to people you’ve met online – NEVER give ANY bank details to anyone. If you have sent money and you are concerned about this, there is nothing to be embarrassed about. It is important to immediately report it to your bank and if further action is required, to also inform the police.
- Meet people in public places
- Tell friends and family about your plans
Asking yourself, “is this for me?”
- Only date if you’re ready. There may be pressure to get married or find someone as quickly as possible when you’re dating in your 50s. It’s important that you remember to take your time when getting to know someone but also to alleviate yourself from such intense pressure. Dating is fun, but it isn’t the only way to feel fulfilled and full in life. If you feel this pressure from dating, focus on creating a fun and satisfying life for yourself first.
- Trying different methods for meeting people. Maybe dating apps aren’t for you, but perhaps groups are. There are always alternatives to meeting people. It might be hard at the beginning finding where, which is why it is important to know where you can get support and advice!
- Meeting the right match for you. Getting to meet and know new people can be an exciting time. It is important however to make sure that these new relationships are built on mutual respect, understanding, honest and open communication. For new relationships, it’s good to ask yourself and reflect whether someone is the right match and treating you with kindness.
Support from SASH
SASH offer free services for those who are seeking support and advice on their sexual health and wellbeing. Whether you are hoping to find community through our social events or one-to-one support to discuss your mental health,
SASH is always happy to offer support for those who are aged 50+.
Please get in touch with our services if you would like any further information.
Useful resources and references
Dating After 50: Rules, Advice & Tips | Midlife Divorce Recovery
An expert's dating advice for over 50s | Age UK
Single Women over 50 - What's it Like to Date (psychcentral.com)
Solo Adventure Tours for Over 50s | Holidays for Singles - Explore