Dating as an older adult can be intimidating and exciting all at once. You may not know what to expect after having been out of the dating scene for so long, but now that your children have flown the nest and you find yourself all alone, the idea of dating may start to look more and more appealing. Nevertheless, navigating the dating scene all over again can be challenging. In this article, we share with you some senior dating advice to follow.
Set Your Own Rules
Never let anyone tell you the way you prefer to do things aren’t the way things are done now. For instance, if you are strictly against kissing on the first date, make your expectations clear and stick to them. Just because societal norms may be different now doesn’t mean you have to do something you are uncomfortable with. If anything, one benefit that comes with age is that you are firmer about setting your own boundaries and ensuring that they are respected.
Safety Comes First
There are a number of ways you can meet someone new: Through an introduction by friends or family, offline dating, or online dating. If you are looking to try out online dating, always remember that safety comes first when you are ready to meet someone in person. For your first meeting and all subsequent ones until you are truly comfortable with the other party, arrange to meet in a public space with plenty of other people around. In addition, let a loved one know where you will be and when you expect to return.
Keep Your Family Informed
Now that your children have flown the nest and have families on their own, chances are they will want to see you happy with someone too. You may be worried about how your family will react if you start dating again, but remember that you are the authority in your own life now. Let them know that you intend to start dating again and reassure them that your new partner will not replace their other parent, whether you have gone your separate ways or they have predeceased you.
Take Things at Your Own Pace
While the family may make up a big part of your life, remember that introducing a new partner to your family can change the relationship dynamic instantly. Regardless of your age, bringing someone home and introducing them to your family is a big step, and you should only do that once you are serious about them.
Enjoy Active Independent Living at TerraBella Windsor Lake
While it can be nice to find love again in later life, that may not be the priority for every older adult. You may simply be looking for friendship and companionship, especially if aging in place has left you socially isolated. In our independent living community at TerraBella Windsor Lake, you can benefit from a comprehensive range of amenities that include a heated swimming pool and a well-stocked library, and the best part is that you will always be surrounded by friends and neighbors.
