TEN RULES FOR SENIOR DATING
by Lisa Bower

When a person becomes a senior citizen, it doesn’t have to mean the end of their dating life. In fact, senior dating is becoming more and more common because people are living longer than ever before. The following ten rules for senior dating will keep you safe and happy while you meet new people.

The first rule for senior dating is to be upfront about your intentions. If you plan on dating around or do not intend to marry again, you should make this known when dating people. This way, no one gets the wrong idea.

Meet people in public places so that you are safe. Even if you are meeting other seniors, you won’t know if these people are 100 percent on the up and up.

Stay positive. You don’t want to constantly reference your age or that you’re new to dating again after a lull. This is a time to have fun and not talk only of your insecurities.

Be on time. This is a basic dating rule for people of all ages, but it is sure to result in a good start to a date. Being late speaks poorly about an individual and can make your date feel as if you aren’t interested.

Tell your family members, especially if you have children. If you don’t tell your family that you’re dating, they may find out another way and feel disrespected, sad or angry.

Group dates are a great way to meet people and have fun. If you go on a group date, it will help keep the conversation moving and will lessen the stress of re-entering the dating world.

Be wary of senior dating websites. You can use them, but you should always use caution. You never know if the person you’re talking to is lying about who they are and what they look like.

Never mix love and money. If you are dating someone, never give them power of attorney over you or allow them to benefit from your Social Security, pension, or other benefits.

Don’t rush into monogamy. You may find that you long for a partner or for marriage, but you shouldn’t rush into it and marry or move in with just anyone. Take the time to meet as many people as possible.

Have fun! Do things on your dates. Go golfing or bowling or even for a stroll.