Statistics show that men and women in the 50+ demographic make up 20-35% of all online daters. Divorce rates have doubled in the 50+ age range and many of these newly singles people are looking to online dating as a way to improve their social life. One of the top dating sites, Match, states that 25% of its total user base is made up of people whose ages range from 50 to 65. This market is one of the fastest growing online dating demo’s. Sites that were popular among this age range include Loveawake.com, eHarmony, Single Parent Meet, and Match.
Get Some Help With Technology
One of the main obstacles in online dating for both men and women in this age range are the technical aspects. People over 50 have not grown up using computers and might not feel comfortable with the internet. The learning curve can be a little steeper for these people when learning to use a dating site. Fortunately, only basic internet knowledge such as knowing how to use email and needed to use these sites. The big name brand dating sites have spent alot of money making them user friendly and easy to use. If you are well acquainted with email and the internet, you are ready to get started.
Don’t Be Afraid To Initiate the First Contact
Your success with internet dating can depend greatly on how active you are on the site. Remember that everyone on the site is single and available. Don’t be shy about sending lots of emails to people that pique your interest. If you send out lots of email, you will face some rejection, it is just a fact of life. Also be sure not to take rejection too personally. Searching your people that have shared interests or hobbies is a way to create chemistry quickly. Get comfortable with the “search” function. This will help narrow down the field of candidates to a small group that fit with you and your lifestyle. If you aren’t “proactive” about contacting people, you aren’t fully taking advantage of the site.
Don’t Get Serious Too Fast
If you are emailing and conversing with more than 1 person on the site, you should also assume that they are doing the same. If you meet someone interesting, don’t assume that they even want to be exclusive. Many people in the over 50 age range have not been single for a long time and they might want to take advantage of being single. Therefore you shouldn’t assume that a person you are dating is on the same page, unless you have a specific conversation about it.
Online daters generally go out on dates with more than 1 person on the site, before they settle into a committed relationship. But, statistics show that a relationship gained from a dating site tends to get serious much more quickly, compared to a relationship that starts offline. On average, a relationship found through an dating site led to marriage on average of 1 1/2 years, compared to 4 years for an online marriage. If marriage is your focus, stick to high-end membership sites like eHarmony that generate matches based on your personality, likes/dislikes, and hobbies.
Be Open to Some Baggage
Men and women in the 50 – 65 year old age range most likely have been through marriage, divorce, and children. It is unlikely to find a person that has no children or has never been married at this stage of their lives. Being too picky will prevent you from meeting interesting, fun people that might be a great match. Don’t be afraid to take on a little extra baggage, as you may have your own.
In conclusion, if you are over 50 and single, internet dating may be a good fit for you. It allows to search specifically for someone who fits your personality and lifestyle. The over 50 demo is growing rapidly, so do not be afraid to take a leap of faith and jump in.