When was the last time you went on a date?

Yes, it is a rather personal question, but what if you’d like to meet new people, yet aren’t sure how to start? 

Well, you’re not alone – especially if you’ve not dated for a while. So, let’s talk about dating apps and why you might consider using them.

If you haven’t used a dating app before, or you’re not sure if they’re for you, the fact is that over 11 million people in the United Kingdom use dating apps, and 10% of those are aged 45 and above. 

Dating apps are an accepted way for people to meet each other nowadays, and once you’ve taken the plunge, you’ll discover just how easy and convenient using a dating app can be. 

Easy, because dating apps are specially designed to make the whole process of finding and meeting new people straightforward and pleasant. And convenient because an app allows you to sample a wide range of potential partners from the comfort of your favourite armchair. 

Then comes the all-important business of reviewing photos and bios, deciding which you do and don’t like, and narrowing down your preferences. This is where you have to decide what you really want from a date. 

Dating professionals and people who write research papers on this subject all agree that you’re more likely to have a pleasant dating experience if you spend some time thinking about what you want out of a date.  

Dating in your 50s.

Dating in your 50s isn’t really any different from dating at any other age in the sense that it’s about forming happy relationship experiences.

So needless to say, forming those happy relationship experiences isn’t just a result of what you want from a date, but what you put into making it a success. 

If you go the dating app route, this starts with your online bio, or profile, which is a potential date’s first impression of you, so you should include your favourite pictures of yourself, your hobbies, interests and passions.

Be honest about what you’re looking for in a relationship. A successful dating profile should give a genuine snapshot of who you are, making it easy for others to see if they share your values and interests. Don’t be afraid to share any interesting quirks and eccentricities that make you a real, multi-dimensional person.

Best dating sites and apps for over 50s.

Eharmony

They say that real love is at the centre of everything they do. ‘Since 2000, we have been at the forefront of creating highly compatible relationships based on key dimensions of personality that predict the most successful, meaningful relationships. And we are proud to say that over the last 20 years, we have created over 2 million successful relationships in over 125 countries.’

Ourtime

Calling themselves the mature dating site in UK, Ourtime say they’re the dating site for like-minded singles over 50. ‘If you’re single, over 50 and looking for someone to enjoy life with, or want to meet new people who share your interests, enjoy the same activities as you, and have the same outlook on life and relationships, welcome to Ourtime’.

Match.com

Apparently 2.6M people have already met someone on Match.com. Match.com say: ‘Register with us, create your perfect online dating profile and so you don’t miss out on a chance to find that special someone. Your profile can be made visible to members of our dating services for the over 50s or single parents.’

Tips for dating in your 50s.

Before you write your online profile, start by making a list of possible attributes you’d prefer in a potential date partner.

One expert suggests picking 5 characteristics you’d prefer in your date, such as a good conversationalist, a sense of humour, or a love of animals. You get the idea. You might also list a few negative attributes you’d rather avoid in a date.

Prior to your actual date, it would also be an idea to think about how you’ll introduce yourself to someone you haven’t met before, and be prepared with what you might include in your opening conversation. Think of your profile as your opening line; something your match can respond to or ask a follow-up question about.

Don’t form an instant idea of who your date really is. Give them a chance to relax and open up, even if you don’t feel any initial chemistry.

Get to know your date. The point of the first date is not to decide if you want to marry them, but to make a real connection and discover if you want to see them again.