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7 Red Flags in Senior Dating Scenarios

Don’t ignore these behaviors. 

It's never too late to find love and companionship, no matter what your age. Research shows relationships and friendships positively impact our mental and physical health as we grow older, and dating can be a fun way to experience new adventures. If you've been out of the dating game for a while, it can be easy to overlook or not recognize certain negative behaviors. Here are 7 red flags to watch out for when dating as a senior.

Asian senior woman holding and counting US dollar banknotes money in purse. Poverty, saving problem in retirement.
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Be wary of anyone who asks you for money, especially if you haven't known them for that long. They might be trying to take advantage of you, and cross boundaries. This is especially important to be careful of if you haven't met in person yet.

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Whether in person or online, never give anyone your personal information. There is absolutely no reason they could need it from someone they are simply dating. If they continue to ask even after being told no, they could be trying to scam you.

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Someone who is rushing to be intimate may not be taking the relationship seriously. Take your time to get to know someone. If they keep trying to force the issue, they may not respect your feelings or boundaries.

Elderly adorable Caucasian grandmother talking on phone with her grandson standing at kitchen having anxious and worried face expression, looking through window, waiting him for lunch
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If someone frequently takes a long time to get back to you when at first they were prompt, it could be a red flag. Lack of communication may mean lack of interest. It could also mean someone is just not ready for something serious.

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Never meeting friends and family of the person you are dating, especially if it's been weeks or months, could be a red flag. They may be seeing someone else, or it could mean they aren't serious about the relationship. Don't be afraid to ask why.

Portrait of a serious senior man in a studio, looking at camera.
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Someone who tries to isolate you from friends and family may not have your best interests at heart. Be careful of anyone who displays controlling behavior, or tries to tell you what to do. Maintain your boundaries.

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If you've been talking to someone online through, say, a dating app, and they frequently find excuses not to meet in person, this could be a serious red flag. They may not be interested in a relationship, or they may have ulterior motives in stringing you along. There's also a chance they are not who they say they are, as in a catfish-type situation. 

Ferozan Mast
Ferozan Mast is a science, health and wellness writer with a passion for making science and research-backed information accessible to a general audience. Read more