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Tinder for Seniors?

Tinder for Seniors?

Yes. Seniors date. Whether they’re widowed, divorced, or a lifelong bachelor or bachelorette. Whereas their younger counterparts have been relying on online dating apps like Tinder, many seniors have now gotten in on the act and there is a new app that makes it easy for them to find the companionship they crave — be it friends or a romantic partner. Given the rise of older adults using both social media and apps, it makes perfect sense that growing numbers of tech-savvy seniors are finding new connections with the aid of apps.  

What is Stitch?

One of these apps in particular is called Stitch and its website acknowledges that older adults are just like anyone else looking for love and companionship. It can pair older adults up with like-minded people who are looking for travel companions, group activities, intimacy, romance, or just company. Stitch believes that no matter what age you are, people need company.

The reason people describe Stitch as “Tinder for Seniors” is because, similar to the Tinder app, users will only be connected with people that they have liked.

How Does Stitch Work?

Stitch is extremely easy to use and allows users to sign in with their Facebook account or email. The one catch is that, in order to get on Stitch, users must be 50 or older. This age restriction promises that older adults will be able to connect with people that are in similar stages of life.

The site heavily vets the identity of participants to make sure it’s free from scammers, con-artists, or would-be giggolos who may have less-than-good intentions toward the people they connect with. Stitch also takes away the pressure of dating by offering other forms of companionship. This feature allows users to find exactly what they are looking for and can help them slowly make their way back into the dating world.

How Dating Sites Can Help Seniors

Stitch acknowledges the very real problem that older adults face due to social isolation and the impact it has on their health and well-being.

Isolation for seniors is a worldwide problem but studies show that with the help of learning new technology seniors are able to stay more connected. Apps & websites like Stitch can help reduce the effects of social isolation which include greater risk of obesity, cardiac disease, depression, and high blood pressure.

In addition to Stitch, there is also SeniorPeopleMeet, which caters to older adults looking to meet a special someone. This site also maintains a strict vetting policy, limiting participants to a community of people that are 50 or older who want strictly a romantic relationship.

Whereas Stitch opens the field to older adults seeking a variety of relationships – from friendships to casual dating to those seeking a long-term romantic partner, SeniorPeopleMeet acts exclusively as a matchmaker for those who want to share their retirement years with a special someone.

Last but Not Least- Safety & Dating

As always, these sites and apps encourage seniors to stay safe when dating and offer rules, guidelines, and tips for keeping things safe.

The creator of the Stitch, Andrew Dowling, makes safety a number one priority when it comes to online dating. Stitch prides itself on the protection of user’s identities & a safe dating experience.

It is important to remember that, when meeting people from online sites, you should meet in a public place or tell a friend or family member where you are going and who you are meeting.

It goes without saying that, no matter what your age,  it’s important to practice safe sex. The AARP has reported that there has been a rise in STD rates among older generations.

It’s not a surprise that many seniors are finding new ways to meet new people. Do you know of any seniors using these apps? Have you used them yourself? What was your experience or any advice you can share? Do you know of any other ways that seniors can use tech to expand their social circle? Let us know in the comments below!

Author Bio: Meghan Fennelly is currently a senior at Temple University studying Advertising & Business. Outside of school, Meghan loves to attend comedy shows & explore the City of Brotherly Love. You can find her on Twitter @MeghanFennelly and on LinkedIn.

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