Strong, intimate relationships are good for our health and well-being at every age. However, for many reasons, finding a partner after retirement can be challenging. While it’s estimated that as of 2011, 55% of women and 28% of men over age 65 were single, it can still be tough to meet someone new.
One the biggest challenges of finding romance after 65 is simply lack of opportunity. In retirement, we are less likely to forge out into the world and meet new people, whether through work or social activities with colleagues. The key, for many older adults, is to invest in more time doing the things you love with like-minded people. Here are some tips on where you can connect with others:
Do what you love. There are a myriad of social activities out there for older adults, from fitness programs at the local YMCA geared specifically to seniors, to church groups and volunteer opportunities. Finding a group of like-minded people doesn’t only increase your chances of romance, but can also boost your mood and reduce feelings of loneliness and depression.
Join a senior community. A senior community is a great place to find other adults at a similar point in their lives. When you join a senior community you can take advantage of a low maintenance lifestyle, organized activities, and onsite fitness programs and clubs that make it easy to make new friends and even forge new romantic relationships.
Connect online. Today, more older adults are online than ever before. That means it also easier than ever to find someone your age to connect with. There are even specific online services that cater to older adults 55 and over and 65 and over, created by everyone from the AARP to eHarmony.
Wherever you go to find romance later in life, be sure to have fun on your journey there. It can be easy to get discouraged or think your best years are behind you, but the truth is that when it comes to love, every day is a new opportunity to connect with others.
