Volunteering at a senior’s event has always been a pleasure.  Imagine the surprise when hearing three senior ladies discussing their online dating interests and the men that they had been “talking” to.  While sitting and listening to these women describe the men that they had encountered in this new world, it was evident how widespread and commonplace online dating has become.

Why have seniors flocked to the internet in search of love?  Well, it may not necessarily be love in the sense that most would describe love.  With women typically living longer, many women find themselves widowed and alone.  The chances of finding someone their age with similar interest is much more difficult, especially when the number of available men at a similar age dramatically declines.

Seniors, especially women, find that most men their age are married or in committed relationships, making their options that much more difficult.  The Internet changes that.  There are many more men online, with a variety of interests.  The most amazing part is these men are quite willing to travel or move to find a mate or a companion for their remaining years.

Getting online has become more easy.  Many senior groups have computers with Internet access and there’s always someone there to help them through their first few hours online and then they are off, searching the many sites dedicated to senior dating.

Seeing and hearing these three women talk about their new computers, and all the things they have discovered such as FaceBook, MySpace and Twitter was enjoyable.  Hearing them talk about their upcoming “dates” and plans to travel to meet their “friend” who they discovered on eHarmony or PlentyofFish was delightful.

While some would criticize women of their age for taking such measures, one must sit back and ask “What is wrong with seniors using online dating services?”  It has become highly acceptable throughout our society, and has become an effective way to meet people.  Granted, it would be difficult for some people at similar ages to understand how anyone could meet someone over a computer, it is not like these women are setting out to “hook-up” with multiple partners, or at least that was the impression given in the conversation overheard.

Seniors should discover online dating.  They should experience the wonders that the Internet has brought to many lives and if it gives these individuals an opportunity to have a mate or a companion for the remainder of their lives, sobeit.