When it comes to finding the perfect partner, the search doesn’t stop when you might imagine. In the U.S., for those over the age of 60 many are single (windowed, divorced or never married), and over half of individuals in this age group believe they know the secrets to a happy and long-lasting relationship. So, the search for love continues.
Dating for Boomers – Apps
In a survey conducted by CivicScience, 13% of those over 65 are dating on Tinder and nearly 1 in 3 say they’ve had luck with online dating and dating apps. (That compares to only 24% for those in the 30 to 44 age group.) Pew Research reports that just over a quarter (26%) of single adults over 50 have used dating apps of some kind, with Match and eHarmony listed most frequently.
Dating for Boomers – Behaviors
How do those over 60 view dating today? Over 40% say they’d date someone 10 years older, and many aren’t afraid to bolt on a date they’ve had second thoughts about. Nearly 20% have made up an emergency to bow out of a date.
When it comes to date planning, those over 65 don’t feel confident about planning something romantic (only 11% say they are good at this). When considering a food establishment for a date, older age groups gravitate toward gourmet restaurants or coffee shops and believe double dates are acceptable for a first date. Their younger counterparts are more likely to choose cocktail lounges, dive bars or chain restaurants.
How about safety concerns when it comes to online dating? Perhaps with age comes wisdom? Sixty percent of single baby boomers in the dating game express they are very concerned about the risks that come with meeting someone online.
While dating behaviors and perceptions may vary between generations, the desire to share experiences and find love remains a common denominator for all.
Where do you stand? Do you care about height when dating?