Dear Lifehacker, I’m 45 and I’m going on a date with a 63-year-old woman. What do I need to consider when it comes to dating an older person? Thanks, Gap Concern
Dating picture from Shutterstock
Dear GC,
The fundamentals of dating apply regardless of any age difference: treat your date courteously, don’t make any assumptions about what’s going to happen, be yourself, be relaxed, remember to trim your nose hairs. You’re both interested enough in each other to have planned a date, so focus on that, not the age difference.
The only possible issue you might encounter is differing frames of reference: she knows about 18 years of stuff that happened before you were born, and the TV shows and movies and musicians you enjoy may well be quite distinct. But people overcome those kinds of gaps all the time. Take the opportunity to learn about a different point of view, and focus on what you have in common.
Two other points: if things go especially well, make sure you use a condom. Someone in their sixties isn’t going to get pregnant, but sexually transmitted diseases are no respecters of age.
And before someone brings it up: we’ll assume that if there are any other issues that need addressing (yeah, we mean extra lubricant), your date will mention it. Let her take the lead on that one. But again, don’t assume anything. Enjoying time together over dinner (or whatever it is you’re doing) is enough to start with.
Good luck and enjoy the date!
Cheers
Lifehacker
Got your own question you want to put to Lifehacker? Send it using our [contact text=”contact form”].
Comments
4 responses to “Ask LH: What Should I Know About Dating A 63-Year-Old?”
Get her to take her teeth out first.
…you can finally cancel your devilgranny subscription.
which means ;
more money for dates
less time wearing teeth
less money spent on sterodent
more early bird dinners
less money spent on birthday/anniversary gifts ( remaining time vs cost )
more time shouting at the tv
less free time after reading the chemist warehouse weekly catalog back to front
more time explaining to friends she’s not your mother but your girlfriend.
less time wasted shopping for new clothes, beige goes with everything
more time together, mainly explaining game of thrones
don’t sign the prenup
STI’s are a real concern. Generally, older people have been with more people than younger people, so the risk of catching something is proportionally higher.