Dating can be challenging for women of any age.  If you're over 60, it can be especially so.  Is online dating OK?  Where are likely places to meet men?

Carol Stanley writes about living a spectacular life after 60 and she has some suggestions for you.

Are love and dating just for the young?  What can an aging baby boomer do to meet men?

There are lots of ways to meet men and women after the age of sixty. I feel obligated to mention men, however we all know it is easier for men to do the search rather than their female counterpart.

So Ladies, let’s concentrate on you.  First of all, take a look in the mirror and give yourself a true examination.  Men are visual beings, and looking your best is paramount.  Your great personality will surely be discovered, but if the attraction is not there in the first place, it may never have its moment to shine.  So lose those extra pounds, follow through with that promised diet, and change your hairdo if that seems like a good idea.  Perhaps a redo of your makeup and a new outfit is in order.  

So you have lost that extra ten pounds, think you look absolutely perfect and you're ready to find some suitably fun men to date.  Having confidence is the most important ingredient and with it you are now ready to get out there and meet the guys.

The big question is where do you go?

Actually today it is easier to find sources than it has ever been.  You know where I am going with this, of course, it is the Internet.  Hook up with some reputable Internet dating services and start by lying about your age.  Just kidding….maybe…..The problem here is that many sixty year old men are requesting women in their forties and, stretching…maybe their fifties.  There are also some free online dating sites.  This is your call.   Today this is considered a very respectable way to meet the opposite sex.   To avoid any mishaps or unwanted surprises be sure someone knows where you are going to meet this gentleman.  Always meet in a public place regardless of how nice he seems on the telephone or e mails, and be sure not to give out too much information about yourself.  He does not have to know where you live or even your phone number.

Then, there are the usual places like church, work, and also indulging in an activity that you really enjoy.  These are especially good places to meet people as you share a common bond before you even begin. There are singles groups branching out all over.  From what I hear there are a lot more men going to these groups today.  This is a totally non threatening place to meet the opposite sex.    What is especially advantageous about these groups is that they often do fun things like trips, outings, barbeques etc.  

Also check out your town for restaurants that have party tables.  These tables are designed for singles, so you just go in, plop down, and mix and mingle with other single people.    It makes going out to dinner an adventure instead of “a table for one.”  Another great place is a poker table, and there are many informal games in many cities. I have run into a lot of single guys at the poker table.  If you do not play maybe you should learn how to be the next Texas Hold ‘Em winner.  These tables are usually nine men to one woman.  

Bars are questionable, however if you have a local watering hole where you feel comfortable, going to them gets you out and talking with people.  The key is to meet lots of new people, as people often know other people, even your married friends.  You can never have enough friends!

It is a competitive world out there in business, love and friendship.  Look your best, be friendly and know you will have to get out of your comfort zone.  There are guys out there, and as a married woman I have run into a lot of them.   So there is romance around the corner.  Forget your age!

Carol Stanley is the author of For Kids 59.99 And Over.  She also blogs at Spectacularlifeaftersixty.

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