As the fastest growing segment of the U.S. population, baby boomers are enjoying romance and sexuality well beyond retirement age. Once thought to be a function of age, sexuality is influenced primarily by health, according to the Social Life, Health and Aging Project conducted by the University of Chicago.
The Benefits of Dating
Single seniors who integrate dating into their lives will increase the social interaction and activity that are proven to enhance health. "Social relationships are known to contribute to the health and well-being in older men and women," Richard Suzman, PhD, Director of Social and Behavioral Research Program at the National Institute on Aging, was quoted as saying in the August 23, 2007 article "Sex Declines Only Slightly From Active Senior Citizens" on SeniorJournal.com.
Finding Love Online
Online dating websites are rich sources of potential dates for single seniors. Online dating websites for seniors vary in components and price. They range from free initial searches and online profiles to web chat rooms and niche categories, such as BBW (big, beautiful women) and senior dudes.
SeniorPeopleMeet
SeniorPeopleMeet is an online dating site for people 45 and older. Member profiles feature pictures with video, audio and text chatting options. In addition, members can read and discuss online articles of common interest ranging from empty nest syndrome and to dating advice from "The Love Doctor," Terri Orbuch, PhD.
SingleSeniorsMeet
SingleSeniorsMeet attracts singles 50 and older. The features include online profiles with pictures, a chat room, instant messaging opportunities, and a private mailbox to enable private conversations. SingleSinglesMeet also offers some services free, including posting a picture and profile, browsing others' photos and profiles, reading message boards and searching the data base.
SeniorFriendFinder
SeniorFriendFinder appeals to singles 40 and up and features videos, blogs and interactive polls such voting for favorite movies. Members can select from themed chat rooms that vary from general to the racy "Boudoir" chat room. In addition, members can earn money by recruiting new clients to affiliated websites such as AsianFriendFinder, GermanFriendFinder, or MillionaireMate.
DatingForSeniors
DatingForSeniors is for seniors 45 and older and features profiles, message boards and chat room forums. During the initial free trial offer, members can browse others' pictures and profiles. This site also features niche websites for singles who choose to narrow their potential dating categories to areas such senior chubbies and senior gays.
SeniorDating.ContemporaryDates
SeniorDating.ContemporaryDates offers a level of free membership to this and all of the TangoWire dating sites. Other sites include military personnel singles, country western and rodeo singles, and ethnic singles. Members can send messages and smiles to any member. They can also virtual date and chat invitations sent to them by paying members free of charge.
Single seniors choose online dating for reasons that range from socializing and improving their moods or finding a soul mate to enjoying romance and sexuality. Whether single seniors choose active dates such as walking or exercise to enhance their health or intimate conversations in quiet restaurants, the connections made with others through online dating bolster health and happiness.
Sources:
SeniorJournal.com. Sex Declines Only Slightly for Active Seniors (accessed April 3, 2010).
SeniorPeopleMeet.com (accessed April 3, 2010).
Carolyn Morgan - Carolyn Morgan is a Sales Promotions Specialist at a television station in Portland, Oregon and has produced talk shows, telethons, and ...
