If you’re like half of all Americans, you may believe the pandemic is now behind us and you’ve gone back to your pre-pandemic way of life, including pursuing dates through online websites or apps and even meeting potential prospects in person. If so, some things may be different but much may be the same: You’ll need to learn and navigate the technology, you’ll need to keep your guard and be aware of potential romance scams, and you may also be pleasantly surprised that dating in the 21st century can be enjoyable and even successful in helping you find that new person in your life.

First, an update on online dating options. We previously posted early in 2023 some assessments of dating sites and strategies for older adults. There’s no doubt that many of the sites and apps are not intended for more mature participants (and in fact some may employ ageist strategies specifically to keep you off their sites). However, there are still a range of ongoing and updated websites and apps that can be attractive options for older adults, especially if you have specific requirements. AARP recently updated its list of 16 Dating Apps and Websites for Over-50 Singles while the Atlanta Journal-Constitution honed in on a few sites that may be especially appealing to older singles, including sites with large pools of older subscribers, sites that focus on local rather than nationwide matches and sites that allow you to concentrate on potential matches that share common interests (not to mention are more user-friendly for less tech-savvy folks). Speaking of user-friendly sites, you may want to take a look at the Tinder “dating dictionary” that cues you into some new phrases and abbreviations you may find in a dating description: For example, do you know what “cushioning” is? How about O.N.S.? If not, you need to get with it and read more here.

Speaking of getting with it, your notions of what counts as a good first date may also be outdated. Instead of having a date pick you up and take you out for dinner (not a good idea from a safety perspective) The Atlanta Journal-Constitution recommends you select a public yet intimate space, where you can feel safe but also hear each other and have a substantive conversation. Other useful tips for your profile and dating prospects? Invest in the value of some good and authentic photos (don’t try to hide your age or your personality). And be patient yet persevere, taking the initiative yourself rather than waiting for someone to swipe on you. While good things may come to those who wait, in the dating world, those who wait too long may lose out on a potentially good match! For one true story of an authentic happy ending from online older dating, grab your tissues and read here.

Finally, speaking of good matches, if you’re into reality television, you may be excited to learn that The Bachelor television franchise, matching an eligible bachelor with a bevy of eligible women, has now announced that this Fall there will be a new plotline called “The Golden Bachelor” during which an eligible older gentleman will be selecting from a group of older women. From the announcement: “An all-new-unscripted series in which a hopeless romantic is given a second chance at love in search of a partner with whom to share the sunset years of life.” While they have not released the age range of the participating contestants, they have revealed that those who want to be on the show have a 92-question survey to answer to fully describe their lives and what they are looking for. Want to apply or nominate someone else? Grab your best photos and be ready to respond here.