I have just been sent a story about research proving that older people are more decisive, know what they want in a relationship and aren’t afraid to shut down a duff date, research reveals.

Apparently as people enter later life they are more able to tell if they fancy someone from the moment they see them. Singletons in their sixties are also more likely to end a date within minutes of it starting if they don’t immediately fancy the person they are seeing.

The new study of people aged 45 and over shows having someone you can talk to becomes more important with age, as does sharing similar backgrounds and being in similar financial positions.

Researchers found that love at first sight happens more often the older you get. Really? Do you not think it’s because they have become a lot less picky and basically fancy everyone with a heartbeat?

According to the research, one in four people over the age of 65 can very confidently say within seconds whether they are attracted to a new date, compared to just 19 per cent of 45 year olds. Well, surely that’s to do with the fact that they haven’t got much time left to waste?

Singletons in their sixties are also more likely to end a date within minutes of it starting if they don’t immediately fancy the person they are seeing. Ditto, no time left to waste!

Andrew Sheen, editor of online retirement community retiresavvy.co.uk, said: “It’s a myth that life ends when you reach your later years.

“Whether it’s meeting new people clubbing or through online dating, there’s an image of the over 55’s that’s at least a decade out of date.

“Far from being past it and happy to settle, the over 55’s are among the most confident when it comes to dating and romance.

“Our survey finds the over 55s know what they want from a relationship and they’re not afraid to take the lead to get it.

“While in most cases it’s a companion to share interests and the second half of their with, there are still many vivacious people in their fifties and sixties who are interested in continuing their sex lives.”

The study shows that as people get older they understand exactly what they want in life – 77 per cent of people aged 65 and over have a clear life plan compared to just 55 per cent of people in their forties. Again, surely that’s because there’s not much of a life plan left so you have to hurry up!

For more than half of people polled, a successful date is one where they are made to laugh all evening.

And six in 10 say a date is more likely to be a triumph if their suitor isn’t too pushy or presumptuous.

A third of people want to be instantly attracted to the person they’re spending the evening with, while 50 per cent would like them to be courteous and chivalrous.

Despite being unlucky in love so far, 22 per cent of people still hold out hope of meeting a long term love interest, while 44 per cent would be content with finding someone to have fun with.

When it comes to getting into a new relationship, 44 per cent of people are confident they know exactly what they want – having someone to talk to tops the list.

And by this point in their lives, people are more interested in finding someone to have fun with and share similar interests with than having any sexual chemistry.

Despite this, just under half of 55-64 year-olds and a third of those aged 65 and over said sexual chemistry WAS the most important thing to them when it came to a relationship.

The most popular dating methods for people aged 45 and over are dating friends of friends (40 per cent), online dating (27 per cent) and blind dates (15 per cent).

But while 38 per cent deem dating friends of friends as the best way to meet new people, only one per cent have gained anything from having a social engagement with a complete stranger. Does that apply to online dating as well as clearly they too are complete strangers?

Andrew Sheen from retiresavvy.co.uk continues: “At retiresavvy, we want to help challenge stereotypes around ageing and later life. Our users have told us that they’re fed up with the traditional view of what older people are expected to be.”

A DATE WILL LAST LONGER THAN 43 MINUTES IF…

1. The conversation is free flowing and easy

2. Your date appears very relaxed

3. Your date isn’t too pushy or presumptuous

4. You are made to laugh quickly

5. You date is courteous and chivalrous

6. You can imagine having lots of fun with them

7. You immediately feel sexually attracted to them

8. They have the potential to be a long term love interest

9. They don’t bring up any ex-partners

10. You discover you share similar interests

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51 Comments
  • Amanda H
    February 15, 2016

    Hi LuLu, I have to say that being 50 this year, one year out of a relationship, and 5.5 years post divorce, I’m discouraged. Ive not had ONE single offer of a date and the only single man of my age I know is my ex-husband!! I joined the neighborhood Yoga studio and it’s full of single women over 45 and divorced. Some say they haven’t had a date for years.

    I haven’t tried online dating, and swore I wouldn’t, but I think I may have to go that route. My friends all say they have no one they can introduce me to. The men I meet through work are either married or too young if they are single. I had hoped to me someone at a party but I usually end up being the only single women or one of a few and with no single men in attendance!!

    • Family Affairs
      February 15, 2016

      Join the club! How many women do I know that don’t seem to know even one single male – it’s really odd….guess males our age are looking for 30 year olds. Maybe don’t go to the yoga studio – join the golf or fishing club in the area (if you can bear it) x

  • auntiegwen
    February 25, 2016

    I was 44 when I met my husband and he was 40, he proposed within a week and I wasn’t that fussed about getting married again, he had never been married. We did get married 2 years later because it really mattered to him, we absolutely knew we were going to be together and 6 years on we are still disgustingly, blissfully happy. There are gorgeous, lovely, willing to commit men out there. I met him through a running club, get your trainers out…

  • Tina Belton Pittman
    November 27, 2018

    I would love to date and possibly marry someone…. I am 51 yet most men are looking for younger women…. I am very youthful in look and body yet it is still very hard to meet someone especially since I am a minister…. we need love too yet I am still waiting patiently…

    • Rick Craft
      October 11, 2022

      I also am waiting patient for my next wife I want her to be true honest and forever

  • Chandra L Thomas
    January 17, 2020

    I would love to get married. I’ll be 51 this year and ready to marry. My relationship lasted 20 years. He’s cheated on me numerous of times. I’m to old for that. I’m waiting patiently for the right man to come along.

    • Ann Parker
      November 11, 2022

      Ebony seeks Ivory ! 51 years young , seeking a tall gentle, adventurous man . Open Communication, honest friendship is the foundation of a lasting relationship. I appreciate a man who gets his hands dirty or not ,but dresses well ( causal attire) on date nights, Or I’ll pick your clothes for you , lol. TEAMWORK! 😊

  • Anita Windom
    June 29, 2020

    I am 59 and looking for love.
    Please consider senior Love At First Marriage for seniors.

    • Family Affairs
      July 6, 2020

      good idea!

      • victoria cimino
        August 23, 2020

        What an awesome idea!!
        Married At First Sight never focuses on the “real struggle” ..
        Finding happily after in the 50 plus ages!!

      • Marsha Probst
        January 19, 2023

        Mma105961@yahoo.com

    • Faith Thandi Zondo
      January 23, 2021

      I agree. Older people need good companionship as well.

    • Tammy Darnell
      March 13, 2022

      Professional I’m a single mom and I am 50 years old and I am looking for someone to love and to get married too I would love to go on the show and find somebody to love me

    • donnalattuca
      June 29, 2022

      I am also 59 years old looking for senior love at first sight. Please consider marriage for seniors

  • Rebecca Medrano
    June 30, 2020

    I would love to get married again. I lost my husband after 43 year marriage. I have now been a widow for 3 years 4 months. I have been online dating and I haven’t had any luck with a person who wants to come and date me they just want iTunes cards. 🙁
    My husband was my best friend and I just would like to find that man that would want the same thing as I do. A friend for life.

    • Family Affairs
      July 6, 2020

      I wish you well….

    • Paula Clarke
      July 30, 2020

      Hi I’m 53 turning 54 I lost my husband 5 years ago after 3yrs of marriage. and partners of 21 yrs . I would love to find mr right marry and move to sunny Florida ,I’m through with the cold weather.

      • Family Affairs
        August 4, 2020

        Same age as me and sorry to hear about your husband and long term partner. Not sure Florida is ideal at the moment! Fingers crossed it will improve! Lx

    • Daniel Morgan
      April 30, 2023

      Hello my is Daniel Morgan ” pepper” I would love to meet you I’m in Texas 505-480-9113

  • jonette scott
    July 16, 2020

    hi I would love to date and possibly one day get married. I am single and I dont know any single men. I am 65 years young. I havent dated in over twenty years. I thought meeting new people thru friends would be better for me. All of my friends are already married and i hate being a third wheel. I dont know where to meet other singles to tell the truth. Usually men my age are looking for women in their thirties.That hard to compete with. I am sort of introverted and would like to find someone who could kind of pull me out my shell. Still waiting patiently.

    • Family Affairs
      August 4, 2020

      Good luck and sure the time on your own will help in the long run and you will meet someone lovely x

  • Ellen McManus
    October 9, 2020

    Hi, I am 57 and divorced 3 times. The men I married seemed to think I was a push over and cheated on me. I am new to Minot, ND and don’t know a soul. I have 2 beautiful daughters and 2 beautiful grandchildren whom I adore. I’d like to think that romance is still out there for women my age. There isn’t much I can do physically (I have CHF, COPD Liver disease thyroid problems, pancreatic systs, spinal stenosis and, knee replacements)but will give my all. People say I’m fun to be around and can be serious when needed. Please help me find my everlasting prince.

  • Tracie Lynn Stallworth
    February 15, 2021

    Hi, I’m looking for the apple of my eye, the cream in my coffee and the bread to spread my butter on.
    I know I am not for everyone. I am 54 and got married when I was 40. It lasted two years.
    I believe in love and marriage.
    I believe in love at first sight.

  • Teresa Payne
    March 7, 2021

    I look really good at 64. I am widowed for 2 years and would like to meet the next love of my life .

    • Bettie Smack
      November 28, 2022

      I am 62 years old female, divorced since 2006. I too believe that it’s possible to love again after 60. I would love to meet my true person. I have two grown sons 36 and 40. Two grandsons 7 and 17 years old. It would be awesome and wonderful to be casted in a series for seniors who would marry again, at first sight. You should cast a show for seniors to have this opportunity to find love again and I believe the audience would love it and could benefit from such a beautiful experience. If you ever cast in Savannah GA, I’m ready, willing and available.

      • Reliable way to win back Ex.. Impressive!!…. My Ex-lover and I are back together.. with the help of, [fixmybrokenmarriage […] g m ail co m…..
        October 25, 2023

        Woooow!!!!!……….

  • YANICK Louis-Jacques
    March 21, 2021

    Would love to be part of this beautiful experiment.

  • Linda Robison
    April 12, 2021

    I would love to have the experts assist me in finding true love.I am 56yrs old and have never had true love reciprocated. I am a woman who still believes in love and marriage.

  • Tonni F
    May 3, 2021

    I would LOVE to be given the opportunity to be chosen to be in a LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT . I am a young 62. I love the show and the idea. I’m ready for a leap of faith.
    Please fill me in with your adviser on love for seniors. (Over 55) ❤

  • Debra Rodman
    May 31, 2021

    I am so excited about the opportunity/the chance of finding love at my age. (61). This show gives me hope of finally experiencing what it feels like to be in love. I believe it’s never too late for anything. I want that special guy to climb into bed with at night, wake up in the morning with a kiss to start our day. Go for a hike up in the mountains with the smell of pine trees all around us. Share coffee in the morning and a glass of wine on our front porch at night. I feel I’d be the perfect candidate to go through this journey with the man I was meant to spend the rest of my life with. I have 4 children and 2 grandchildren. They are all vested in seeing me happy. I feel I am more than perfect for this show and truly want to be married.

    • Family Affairs
      June 1, 2021

      Good luck with your search! Lx

  • Karen
    January 13, 2022

    Please make one for older individuals who want to be happy and safe!!!!

  • Frieda
    January 17, 2022

    Hi,
    I’m 54 years old and single because i don’t trust people after my ex husband cheated on me. But i love love, life and family so please i would like help from an expert.
    Thank you .

  • Veronica
    January 23, 2022

    I am all I’m! I am 53, never married and look.foeqard to the opportunity to explore Married at First Sight, 50+! Dating at my age is horrible. No.luck at all! I.am.encourages! Pick me, pick me!

    • Telicia Nathan
      October 27, 2022

      I am 53 single and ready to be married. I want someone to share my success and grow to higher levels. I love love and I’m ready to spread the love with a caring man.

  • Victoria Winzler
    February 5, 2022

    I love married at first sight. It takes a hugh amount of faith in the professionals. Will you ever do over 50′ married at first sight? At 50 we are still looking for that one true love, to learn, grow and hopefully fall in love forevere. At 50 we are still young at heart and looking for the same as the youndg contests . We have such hudge hearts without judgement! Love is for every age we should show this to the world, it can work!

    • Family Affairs
      February 7, 2022

      Good idea! L x

  • Rebecca Claytor
    March 29, 2022

    I’m 72 & lost my partner of 18yrs last year. I would love to have Married At First Sight find a husband for me.
    I’m praying MAFS will consider making senior’s eligible for their show!

  • Tricia
    April 7, 2022

    I watch Married at First sight all the time. And I really think youth is wasted on the young. Especially in this day and age. I am 66 years old. I’ve been divorced and single for 10 years. I’m looking for a lifelong relationship, actually that’s all I’ve ever been looking for but it’s just never panned out.

    I would love for someone to choose someone who would be a perfect match for me, for better and for worse. I’m not dating now because of the covid situation, but I’m considering going on an online dating site to see if there’s any prospects they want. I know that a lot of older men are looking for younger women. I really don’t understand that unless it’s for lust instead of love.

    I have been texting with someone since August 2021 that I knew years ago in Junior high School. I had a crush on him and he had a crush on me and we just didn’t know it. We have so much in common and I would like to meet up and get together with him. But he is of the mindset that he’s to set in his ways to be in a relationship at this age. Living in different states and we text a lot and send each other meaningful gifts. He makes me laugh, he makes me happy, he is super intelligent and I love his mind. But it makes me sad that nothing else can ever come of it. So I have decided we will just be very very good friends and I can reach out and try to find happiness and love somewhere.

    I spent most of my life taking care of my parents until they passed away. My mother just left us in 2020 and it took me a year to get over that loss. This year I’ve come into myself and I’m just ready to live the rest of my life being happy. So I’m just starting to care about and love myself for who I am and make any improvements that I can health wise so that I can gain more years in this universe.

  • Suzan Booker
    April 17, 2022

    I would love to be a part of a Seniors Married At First Sight. I am a 73 year old widow who enjoys and respects life. I miss having a companion to share the wonders of senior life. I truly hope you decide to go ahead with a senior project. Seniors are so under represented in all media. You could be such a service and opportunity to our beautiful older citizens.

  • Yvette Simpson
    April 19, 2022

    Please consider a season for seniors. I’m 59 years old and looking for love.

  • Crazy chill
    May 29, 2022

    I also feel the same way I am 67 years old looking for someone . I was with my partner for 36 years and never married raised children five and have beautiful grandchildren and he decided that he was not happy with his life and left to be with someone else wealthy I would love to be able to meet a decent man for a relationship never to old to start again !!

  • alice f
    October 20, 2022

    I believe at this time in our life with kids grown and ready for a forever man in my life . I can’t wait to find the man in my life that will complete me . I have worked hard and raised my son so now it seems to be my time in life . I would love a show like this and would even be willing to go on and try to find my forever guy !!!!!!

  • Alice faupel
    October 20, 2022

    I’m ready to go at 51 years old To find the man that completes me . I may be 51 but I don’t feel it look my age at all!!! Im ready let’s do it !!!!

    • Jamul White
      July 19, 2023

      Hello Alice and hope all is well with you what it do with you , I’m jamul 50 years old but don’t look it or act like it, I never married no baby mama drama , have a company that I started live alone with my cat, work hard and play harder, I live in California the Bay Area Hayward heart of the bay

  • Michele
    February 11, 2023

    I would love to take part of this intense and emotional rollercoaster of a experience. I was married for 20yrs when I thought I’d got this. Walk in the park. But wasn’t to be. And struggled to become me. And a mum as it didn’t feel like they needed me anymore.. I thought Ur ok u got this . But I’m not ok. I had a relationship whilst being single for awhile. Making plans. But slowly every effort put in was slowly shoved aside I didn’t need to be someone else’s babysitter. As in cleaner.cooker.washer. in the end I said goodbye. All I was looking for was the funny guy sense of humour hair. 🤣🤣 And wants to look after someone.that would lookafter me . Team work.

    • Family Affairs
      February 20, 2023

      Good luck with finding what you’re looking for! Lx

  • Sara
    April 3, 2023

    I would love for there to be a 45 years and older love is blind!!

    I’ve been single over 6 years and have not met one person to date even on dating sites!

    I would be so excited for this to be something to have in the future!

  • Davida Walker
    September 20, 2023

    So excited to here that you guys are seriously considering us” 50 plus for your show, where do I sign up ! Dating at this age is so scary and I’m not a scary person at all! Please consider me I’m outgoing, well-minded and ready to found real love again

  • Sabrina Duglas
    April 22, 2024

    I have some problem at I am 61 years old and I have been looking for my true soulmate ever since I was 50 I don’t have no good luck with online dating and meeting the right man for me. I’m a good heart, a Christian person. I have always watched married at first sight. It is mine. Favorite favorite show. I don’t agree with all the couple’s but I won’t for the ones that made. Please help me find my soulmate. My birthday is July the 28th and I would love to be married before I’m 62.

    • Family Affairs
      May 1, 2024

      I don’t think I can help you but I wish you luck! I’m sure you will find someone in real life soon – maybe take up a few new hobbies?