Senior couple smiling into camera as a symbol of senior dating
start free today
I am I am looking for

You can add more detail about your gender in your profile

For your security, use the following password format:

  • At least 8 characters
  • Letters AND numbers/special characters
  • Must not be the same as your email address

Senior Dating: Let Love Bloom Even in Your Later Years

by eharmony Editorial Team February 27, 2024

Curious about what awaits you in the world of senior dating? More and more older singles are discovering there’s no age limit for love. And in the search for a partner, online dating is ever more common in your age group.

In our 20+ years in creating great relationships, eharmony has learned almost all there is to know about finding genuine connection. Join us on a journey of discovery as we share insights about senior singles, offer practical tips and look at what to expect when dating over 60. We’ll also explain why eharmony is the most effective choice when searching a senior dating site.

Table of Contents

  1. What should you expect when dating over 60?
  2. What do singles over 60 want in a relationship?
  3. Where to look for love as a senior single
  4. Is eharmony good for over 60 dating?
  5. Navigating the five steps to senior dating success with eharmony
  6. Dating as a senior: tips to get you started
  7. Is 60 too old to start a new relationship?
  8. How easy is falling in love after 60?
  9. There’s no reason to shut the door on love

What should you expect when dating over 60?

In some ways, senior dating isn’t any different from any other kind – you still have the thrill of a crush, the first-date nerves, the push and pull of finding a balance that works for you and your partner. And hopefully, the thrill of realizing that yes, they’re the one.

That said, senior singles have to contend with things their younger peers don’t. Many have at least one long-term relationship behind them and those can come with significant baggage. While the dating landscape may have changed, the potential for meaningful connections has not. Openness, honesty, and a sense of adventure are your allies as you embrace the prospect of new relationships. We’re here to show you that senior dating can be a wonderful experience.

What do singles over 60 want in a relationship?

Many singles ask themselves what singles over 60 expect from a relationship. We asked one of our eharmony relationship experts:

What do singles over 60 want in a relationship?

Singles over 60 want companionship that brings warmth and joy to their lives. They seek understanding and acceptance from their partners, someone who appreciates their life experiences and values. Additionally, they desire emotional support and someone who will stand by them through life’s ups and downs. Shared interests, laughter, and creating new memories together are also important aspects of a fulfilling relationship for singles over 60. Overall, they are looking for a deep connection that enriches their lives and brings them happiness in their later years.

Dr Lalitaa Suglani
eharmony Relationship Expert

Where to look for love as a senior single

There are many ways for people interested in senior dating to meet potential partners. Look for events in your local community, like open mic nights or free museum days. Events at your local senior center or place of worship are also a great opportunity to meet other senior singles. Don’t have one nearby? Look for classes tailored to seniors at your local library.

Or you could do as more and more senior singles do and look online.

Is eharmony good for over 60 dating?

You might wonder, why choose eharmony over a more traditional senior dating site? There are three great reasons if you’re considering dating over 60:

“…the plot was written, all thanks to eharmony.”

Carla & Simon

We put the focus on compatibility

eharmony’s unique Compatibility Matching System means that you only connecting with people you have the potential to hit it off with, right from the start.

We help you get to really know people

We encourage you to post detailed profiles (and offer easy ways to help doing so!) so you can better understand potential partners right from the beginning.

We keep you safe while you look for love

We work hard to create a safe, trusted space for you, especially as a senior. When you look for love on eharmony, rest assured your privacy is in good hands.

Navigating the five steps to senior dating success with eharmony

1. Discover the real you

eharmony is not just another senior dating site – we believe love happens when you find that person who just gets you. That’s why everyone starts with our Compatibility Quiz. Your answers help us find the singles over 50 you’re most likely to hit it off with.

Example set up profile on eharmony

2. Complete your profile

The key to successful online dating starts with your profile. We make this process as enjoyable as possible by having richly detailed profiles that are easy to digest. That’s why eharmony is the dating app with the highest-rated user profiles.

3. Explore senior singles

In your Discover list, you’ll find every eharmony member who fits your search criteria. Each member you see will display a Compatibility Score based on how likely you are to get along. You can filter who you see based on traits you share (e.g. distance, education, age, wants to have kids etc.) – and you’ll also see what you have in common with each member.

Example singles over 50 on eharmony
Example first message on eharmony

4. It all starts with a Like

Not sure how to get the conversation started? We’ve made it easy: if something on a member’s profile catches your eye, just hit Like. Then you have the option to add a personalized message. You can hit Like on answers to profile questions, their hobbies or your similarities.

5. Two Likes make a Match

Once you get a Like back, it’s a Match. Congratulations! You can now swap messages and send Icebreakers or react with a Smile to get to know each other better.

Because we believe love happens when two people connect based on what really matters. If you’re ready to find out, sign up today.

Example two singles over 50 matched

Now let’s look at some senior dating tips to help you start your journey.

Dating as a senior: tips to get you started

Senior dating mirrors dating at any life stage yet a few key considerations can improve your quest for love.

Figure out what you want

Taking time to figure out what will make you happy before embarking on a relationship could save you time, not to mention heartache.

Get your friends and family involved

Asking your friends and family for advice could also an option. Their insights can add a valuable perspective and enrich your dating experience.

Don’t be afraid to take chances

As people get older, they tend to become more set in their ways. One of the keys to successful senior dating is to say ‘yes’ even when you’re unsure – you never know where it might lead you!

Make your expectations clear

It’s important to know where you stand, but it’s just as essential that any potential partners do, too. Make sure you’re both on the same page when it comes to what you want and need from a relationship.

Keep the lines of communication open

Communication is important for everyone, but especially when it comes to a senior relationship. You’re both coming in with plenty of history, which makes it even more important to talk to each other.

Don’t be afraid to walk away if it isn’t working

Sometimes a relationship isn’t right for you and that’s okay! If you’re uncomfortable, or it isn’t fun, don’t hesitate to pull the plug – there is better out there.

Senior dating tips: discovering the joy in mature connections  

If you want to dive deeper into senior dating, here is our ultimate guide to senior dating tips for a journey to lasting love and happiness.

Is 60 too old to start a new relationship?

Some say 60 is the new 40 and here are three excellent reasons why:

Love has no age limit

Just because you’ve turned 60 doesn’t mean you don’t deserve love. Life doesn’t keep a strict timeline and starting a relationship as a senior single allows you to embrace new beginnings, explore fresh connections, and enjoy the companionship and joy that love can bring, regardless of age.

Rediscovering passion

At 60, you have the chance to rediscover and reignite passion in your life. Whether it’s through shared interests, adventures, or simply enjoying each other’s company, starting a new relationship can bring a renewed sense of excitement and fulfillment.

Dating is good for your health

According to a report from the National Council on Aging, being in a relationship as an older person can lead to lower stress, better health and even a longer life expectancy1

How easy is falling in love after 60?

According to data from the US Census Bureau, there are nearly 21 million senior singles nationwide, a figure comparable to the number of singles aged 20 to 30. However, there’s a noticeable gender imbalance, with older single women outnumbering men. But don’t worry, studies from Pew and the Journal of Marriage and Family suggest that around half of eligible singles are interested in senior dating, with men slightly more inclined than women. Plus, thanks to the internet, senior dating has become more popular than ever. Platforms like eharmony cater to seniors, offering the chance to find at your own pace and from the comfort of home. So, explore eharmony for seniors and discover a world of romantic possibilities.

As a senior single, you have a wealth of life experience that shapes who you are. Celebrate your journey and the lessons you’ve learned along the way. When dating, don’t be afraid to share your stories and insights, as they go a long way towards creating deeper connections.

There’s no reason to shut the door on love

Just because you’re single and over 60, that doesn’t mean you have to stay that way. As an older single, looking for love can feel daunting – but if you’re willing to put in the effort and be proactive, it can be very rewarding. If you’re keen on someone who shares your interests and is looking for a real relationship, eharmony is a great choice for senior dating – so sign up and get started on the path to your next relationship today.

How senior dating works with eharmony

Your search for a great relationship has never been easier with groundbreaking overhaul of the eharmony you know and trust.

We regularly review and update our articles to incorporate the latest research, expert insights, and study findings, ensuring you receive the most relevant information. Learn more about our editorial process.

  • Current Version
    • Expert advice added by
      Dr Lalitaa Suglani
    • Written by
      eharmony Editorial Team
    • Editorially reviewed by
      Copy Editors
    • Editorial quality review by
      eharmony Editorial Team