5 Ways to Start Dating in Your 50s

1. Know Where to Find People Your Own Age

People in their 50s, especially those getting back onto the dating scene after a divorce or the end of a long-term relationship, may feel like they have a hard time finding others close to their own age. Keep an eye out for clubs and social organizations that may help. Classes at the local community college, volunteer groups, and organizations like the Sierra Club all make good gathering places for people at your stage in life. Online dating services are exceptionally good resources too and can help you connect with people if you're a little shy about being social.

2. Remind Yourself of Your Great Qualities

One of the benefits of getting older is that you are wiser and you know yourself much better than you did in your 20s. If you're dating for the first time after a long period out of the game, you may be inclined to dismiss those qualities too readily and worry too much about your fears and insecurities. Don't. Draw up a list of your attractive qualities, ask your friends for a positive but honest assessment of the best things about you and focus on them as you move forward with dating.

3. Be Open to New Experiences

Once we reach our 50s, we're usually fairly set in our ways and have a comfortable routine which helps us feel secure. While that dependability can help make you an attractive date, it's never too late to find or learn something new. Think about things that you've always wanted to try but never found the time: swing dancing, painting, writing poetry, even learning to fly a plane. Structure your dating experiences around new activities and be open to any passions or interests which a new partner might wish to share with you.

4. Dress Attractively but Appropriately

One of the most difficult parts of dating later in life is deciding what to wear. You want to choose an outfit which is comfortable and which makes you feel good, but which fits in with where you're at in life. Talk to peers about what to wear, rather than children or younger friends. People your age will likely be closer to your tastes and proclivities and can tell you what looks good and how to look good without trying too hard.

5. Stay Upbeat

Our romantic history and the accompanying baggage grow heavier as we move through life, and people in their 50s are likely to have had more negative romantic experiences, just through a longer life, than those younger than they. Though you may have the urge to complain about an ex or go on about a failed marriage, stay on the positive side. Focus on things you enjoy, activities that you're passionate about, accomplishments at work and your children or grandchildren. A time may come in the relationship when you can talk about your former lovers or negative experiences, but stay away from them during the early stages of dating.