It may or may not surprise you that those over fifty currently make up the fastest-growing group in the world of online dating. Thankfully, things have now changed, and age and experience are no longer the barriers they used to be when it comes to finding love. To cater to this growing demand, niche dating sites that are exclusively for seniors, or those that are fifty-plus, are increasingly cropping up – and are hugely popular.
We take a look below at exactly why dating platforms designed specifically for more mature people are on this rise, how it all started and why if you’re looking for someone special and fall into this age category, you should consider giving them a try.
Changing Perceptions
Key to the rise of the fifty-plus online dating site is the shift in society’s general view of how, when, and where love can be found – and who can take part in the search. Whereas in years gone by, dating was seen as a younger person’s game, now, online dating is regarded as the standard way of meeting someone special and finding romance, no matter how old we are.
With the divorce rate in most western countries around the 50% mark, getting back into the dating field is a vital way to find a partner if a marriage breaks down. Whereas in the past, married couples tended to stay together for life, now, to potentially avoid remaining single for the rest of your days following a divorce or separation, you’re going to need to get out there and date again. And luckily, society is, in general, totally accepting of this. As it should be.
Niche Dating Sites
Online dating for mature folk has also become so popular as a result of the rise of niche dating platforms. Just as there are now online dating sites specifically for young professionals and single parents, to name just two, there are sites, too, that cater entirely to older people. The best dating sites for over 50 have huge databases, excellent safety features, and offer intelligent matching. The quality and accessibility of these platforms – not to mention their high success rates – have made them a huge hit with mature singles looking for love or companionship.
Many mature people find the idea of joining a dating platform that has been specifically set up for their age group a more comfortable prospect and prefer the idea of being able to easily find viable matches rather than having to go through the profiles of a multitude of younger members.
So many people know at least one happy couple that has met via an online dating site; it’s not surprising that singles of all ages are increasingly turning to such a platform to find love.
Finding Companionship
Unlike most dating sites, many dating sites for seniors cater to those looking for companionship rather than romance. This is a really important aspect for many who use these sites that may simply want company, or to enjoy walking, day trips or eating out with a like-minded person.
Signing up to a senior dating site can take the pressure off of finding romance – and who knows, it may blossom when you’re least expecting it!
The Convenience Factor
One of the key advantages of online dating for all age groups is convenience: you can browse nearby singles, read profiles, match, and even chat with a potential date from the comfort of your own home. With people working until an older age than ever before, this element of convenience is just as important to the fifty-plus crowd as it is to the thirty-somethings using dating apps.
Being able to make initial contact and get to know someone online before meeting in real life feels, for many, a safer prospect, too. This also allows users to effectively narrow down their options and be relatively confident that their date is a good match before meeting up in person.
Find Great Matches Fast
And finally, online dating sites for seniors allow their members to find dates – and possibly romance – fast! Whereas traditional dating largely relies on luck to meet the right person at the right time, dating apps put the ball firmly in your court.
It’s totally fine to join a site not sure if you’re looking for companionship, fun, or something more. You can get out there, meet new people and date, and see how things progress and how you feel. Simply having the opportunity to let your hair down, relax, and chat with a partner can be a wonderful adventure, and you may well find that you make some surprising discoveries about yourself as part of the journey. As well as opening up the possibility of meeting a special person, who knows what new hobbies you may find out that you enjoy, or new favorite restaurants you discover along the way.
If you’re considering joining a senior or fifty-plus online dating platform, staying open-minded and optimistic is the way ahead. Enjoy the process, don’t feel pressured, and have fun. And be prepared to let love find you.