Best Places to Meet Singles Over 40
It’s difficult to date when you’re 40 or older because, unlike in your 20s or 30s, you can’t assume everyone your age is single and searching. If you’ve found yourself back “on the market,” keep in mind that half of all marriages in the United States end in divorce, so the dating pool isn’t as narrow as you would imagine.
It’s still possible to meet people spontaneously in public, but it’s sometimes easier and less daunting to meet them where they are. It’s reassuring to know that the individuals you meet on dating apps are single (ideally) and looking for love, so at the very least you’re on the same page.
What to do if you’re over 40 and want to start dating again?
Simply admitting that you’re ready is the first step. Decide how and where you want to meet people from there. Dating apps have been available for decades, so they are no longer considered a last resort. We’ve listed which dating apps we recommend for those over 40, as well as which ones you should avoid.
You should also be specific about what you’re looking for. Is this a serious relationship? What about a casual hookup? Is it possible that this friendship may blossom into anything more? Whatever it is, be honest about it because you don’t want to fall in love with someone just to find out you’re not seeking for the same thing.
Problems you can face if you’re dating someone over 40
While Frazier claims that the stigma associated with online dating sites has faded, she believes that few single men in her area use these sites, leaving her with fewer options. She also believes that a person’s location has a significant impact on how successful dating apps are for them, and we agree. Frazier, for example, has a lesser pool of people in Indiana than someone in New York or Chicago.
“I love the concept of Bumble because it empowers women to send the first message,” adds Frazier. “However, there were only approximately four men in my age range within a 25-mile radius, which was discouraging.”
Having a family, according to Frazier, might make dating difficult because you may have children to care for, and taking time off from parent duties isn’t always easy.
“It’s difficult to have a night free from cooking, driving kids, and all the other responsibilities we have,” she says. “I’ve been put under duress by men I’ve never met who are clamoring for my time. I already have a lot on my plate without adding to it.”