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Seniors Online: Internet Dating Reaches Maturity
By
Michael A. Piekarz
Staff Writer
Once
thought to be the exclusive
domain of the under-35
crowd, internet dating
is rapidly becoming the
preferred way for singles
over 50 to find friends
and possible relationships.
The internet has revolutionized
how people meet and is
fast becoming the best
way to go.
“The fastest growing group of singles is over 50,” said Rich Gosse,
Chairman of American Singles. “That group is becoming humongous, and it’s
been ignored for far too long.”
The rules of society usually dictate the circumstances of dating. What used to
take place in restaurants, soda shops, movies or social gatherings now takes
place online. There are still plenty of opportunities to find a relationship
outside the home, but many enjoy the search from the familiar confines of their
own private space.
Not only has the manner of looking for love changed, the end result is often
different as well. “Singles who are 55+ are least likely to say they are
looking for marriage,” said Trish McDermott, Match.com’s vice president
of romance.
“I think most of them have come from a long term relationship or a marriage.
They want companionship, romance and passion, and then they’ll wait to
see where it goes from there.
“In most cases, even if romance doesn’t blossom, internet daters
find fun through dinner dates, meeting new people and making new friendships.”
The trend towards internet dating in the over-55 crowd is fueled by several factors.
Chief among these is the increase in internet access. Many of the internet companies
themselves have taken steps to tap a huge potential market. They have made their
dating sites more attractive and more accessible to older Americans.
Another reason for the push may come as a result of watching the success of a
younger generation. “Baby boomers are watching their children use online
dating, and watching their success at finding mates,” says Rochelle Adams,
spokesperson for Yahoo Personals. “They’re seeing that it’s
not really such a crazy concept.”
Because internet dating may be unfamiliar territory, users should make a well-informed
approach. Many dating sites require a fee, so issues of online security for credit
card payments as well as the fee charged and the rate structure should be researched.
While some sites are “free” there may be hidden costs involved, such
as the site selling subscriber information to unscrupulous internet advertisers
(spammers). “Let the buyer beware” also needs to be applied to any
potential dates contacted online.
Remember, too, what is seen may not always be what is found. Photographs can
be easily manipulated online, so appearances may not match expectations. The
lifestyle an individual posts may also be far different than the lifestyle the
actually have.
While most internet personals do not involve fraudulent or criminal intent, the
possibility should be considered and the initial approach should be taken with
care. Many sites provide their users with tips on how to avoid possible scams
as well as tips on how to succeed. Like anything new, internet dating can be
a rewarding activity. It should be approached with full information and with
adequate consideration for self protection.
This page and its contents ©2006
Metropolitan News Company, Inc.
