Moving into an assisted living facility indicates a new stage in life – one which can absolutely be exciting and a fresh start. After all, just because you have reached a certain age does not mean that you have stopped living, and if you are single, this is an excellent time to meet someone new! Don’t be intimidated when moving into a new residence or simply ready to meet a new friend. Senior citizen relationships can be wonderful and bring companionship back into your life.
Some seniors are comfortable meeting people online, and there are sites dedicated to those of us at a certain age. Many still prefer the old-fashioned way of meeting someone – but regardless of how you meet, there are a few tips that can help you to adjust to dating again.
Senior Citizen Relationships – 5 Tips and Tricks
- Nervousness is normal: First dates always evoke a bit of nervousness and anxiety, and it is no different in senior citizen relationships. But while fear is to be expected, don’t let it get the better of you. Nerves can cause you to miss how wonderful your new friend really is. Be open and honest about your feelings, smile, and laugh. Have some questions ready to spark the conversation, so there aren’t awkward poses. And give yourself some grace – dating is sometimes a little scary.
- Feel young at heart: Do you remember when your heart beat fast as a teenager around that special someone? Butterflies in your stomach, a feeling of euphoria, stumbling over your words – all good signs that your heart is open to allowing someone new into your life, and the person you are with is a great prospect!
- Trust your first impression: although much of what you experience may be reminiscent of younger years, your intuition and discernment are now much more developed. At this point in your life, you should be able to tell after one date whether or not this relationship is worth pursuing. Of course, it all depends on your relationship goals – if you are looking for a long-term partner, it is best to move on if you don’t have that “spark.” However, if you are looking for a friend, carry on. Ensure you are both on the same page, so no one misunderstands your intentions.
- Expect and commit to honesty: You’ve come too far in your life to play games and should expect your prospective partner to feel the same. If you both feel connected, you can move on to personal relationship goals, financial status and expectations, religious compatibility, and other weightier issues. Look them in the eye, tell the truth, and expect the same.
- Listen for warning signs: Chances are excellent that one’s personality is pretty set in stone by age 70. If you are conversing and your date is condescending, critical, or dismissive of your life and interests, they aren’t likely to change. You deserve a respectful relationship, so if you feel uncomfortable on a first date, it may be a sign to move on.
Depending on your family situation and relationships, deciding to date again may cause some anxiety with your children and friends. Remember that deep down, any fears or concerns are based on love for you. So explain to them that you are ready for love or companionship. Invite them into your new friendship to ease any objections, but in the end – you should do what is right for you.
Like senior citizen relationships, your choice of assisted living facility must be made carefully – considering your needs, desires, and abilities. If you want to make that move, the staff at A Banyan Residence invite you to call our Venice assisted living residence and schedule a personal tour. We look forward to meeting you!
