For a variety of reasons, dating later in life is increasingly common. Divorce has become an acceptable alternative for adults of all ages. Longer life spans overall mean that a certain percentage of the population will be widowed while still young and healthy enough to develop new romantic relationships.

Dating as a mature adult is a completely different world than teen and young adult dating. Many who are dating again do so following a long-term marriage or committed relationship. You may have been comfortable in your habits and patterns and be unsure how to try something new. Or perhaps you have simply been 'off the market' - for so long that you have forgotten the subtleties of flirting.

Like anything else, dating becomes easier with practice. Rather than the meat market of the average bar scene, you may prefer to meet potential partners in a more relaxed situation. Sign up for a class, take up a hobby, or simply walk your dog in the park. Meeting people with common interests allows possible dating relationships to develop naturally, with little pressure.

Do not actively try to find "a relationship". This approach guarantees that you will be heavy handed and likely scare away a potential partner. Make friends with people of both genders and let chemistry with any one person develop gradually.

Eventually you will find someone to whom you are wildly attracted. There is nothing wrong with basing a relationship on chemistry, but be careful not to confuse attraction and love. True love like you had with your previous partner takes time to develop. Mistaking attraction for love is an especially common blunder for those who have been widowed, who are more likely than divorcees to seek a replacement for what they had.

Dating is difficult no matter what your age. However, later in life your concerns will be different than those you experienced as a teenager. You will have loved previously, and will carry emotional baggage from your previous relationships. You may also have difficulty in meeting potential partners, and be out of practice in the art of dating and relating. Take things slowly, focus on friendships first, and allow relationships to unfold at their own pace. With patience, you can be successful in finding a new partner.

Posted by Lisa.