Later-in-life love is a possibility now more than ever, according to research from census data and online dating services.
- Single seniors can find love in a nursing home or assisted-living center. A special someone can be found through social activities, group classes and wellness programs
- More and more seniors are turning to dating apps and websites. About 6 percent of Americans between ages 55 and 64, and 3 percent of those over 65 have used an online dating website, according to a 2013 Pew Research Center study.
- Many mature people decide they’d rather spend their golden years in sunshine and warmth than live through another frigid winter. The Palm Beach News reported in 2017 that Florida absorbs an estimated 900,000 to 1 million seasonal residents, elevating the population by 5 percent during “snowbird months.†According to Match.com, the number one spot for meeting someone is Vero Beach, Fla., with the highest percentage of resident seniors using online dating sites. Places in southern California, such as Santa Monica and Costa Mesa, also rank high in the top 20. Scottsdale, at 20th, is the sole representative from Arizona in the rankings. With the ample sunshine, dry humidity, and plenty of golf courses and leisurely activities, one would think Arizona would rival other southern hot spots. One reason it doesn’t might be that places like Sun City, the original census-designated retirement community, is almost 50 percent married couples, making Arizona a good place for seniors–just not for singles.
Source: Provision Living, a St. Louis, Mo-based operator of senior living communities in mostly Midwestern states.