Dating Over 50: 5 Tips for Finding Love

Re-entering the dating scene at the age of 50 or older can be downright intimidating. But when you approach it with the right mindset, it can also be an exhilarating and exciting experience. It all depends on your attitude.

Look at this time in your life as a new opportunity for change and growth. With these five dating tips, you can find love.

Keep yourself active
The biggest disservice you can do to yourself when you are dating over 50 is to sit around and wait for the perfect mate to drop into your lap. If you spend all of your time worrying and waiting over finding the right person for you, you've got the wrong perspective. Fill your life with activities of all sorts. If you lead an interesting life not only will you be less likely to focus on being without a partner, but you'll be more interesting to your potential love interest. Take classes, start a new sport, read about something you've always wanted to learn about. In short, live a full life.

Focus on what you want long term
Feeling lonely can sometimes cause seniors to settle for less just because they want companionship. Don't forget to keep your long term interests in mind. Don't get into a relationship unless you really see yourself with that person in the future. It's a waste of your time, and the other person's, to settle for less. Cure your loneliness with friends and new activities and you'll be able to wait for the right person.

Learn the new rules of dating
Dating may have changed a lot since you were last "on the market" so it's helpful to spend some time getting to know the new dating landscape. Dating advice books and websites that are specifically geared toward the over 50 set will help you realize how much has changed, and how much hasn't. It's much easier to be a participant if you know what the game is like.

Decide what you want
Be sure you know what you're looking for, and know how to communicate it, before you put yourself out there. You may not be ready to get into a long term relationship and are just looking for companionship. Alternatively, you may have been on the seniors dating scene for while and want something that lasts. If you define what you want for yourself, you'll be better at letting other people know that too.

Be honest
Avoid the temptation to lie about your age. This type of thing normally comes out at a later time and can ruin a really good relationship. You can eliminate the need to lie about your age by dating within your own age group. You're a lot more likely to shave a few years (or a decade) off of your age if you are trying to date someone who is much younger.

Keep in mind that, when it comes to senior dating, the best policy is to have a good sense of humor and a great deal of patience!