So, you’re over 50 and wondering if dating is still on the table. (Spoiler: it absolutely is.)
Whether you’re newly single, widowed, or finally ready to put yourself back out there, the world of online dating can feel intimidating.
But here’s the good news: you don’t need to be a tech wizard or write the perfect profile on the first try. You just need a game plan and some decent photos to make a noticeable difference.
This guide will walk you through everything—how to choose the right app, avoid scams, craft a profile that reflects who you truly are, and actually enjoy the process.
Step 1: Start by defining exactly who you’re looking for.
Before diving into online dating, get clear on your boundaries, must-haves, and deal-breakers. When you’re emotionally vulnerable or just starting out, it’s easy to bend your standards at the first sign of connection.
Break things down into three categories: wants, needs, and hard no’s. Be firm about your needs and non-negotiables—but stay open-minded about your wants, especially if someone aligns with your values meaningfully.
Step 2: Pick the right dating app for you.
Not all apps are created equal. Some skew younger, some are more casual, some prioritize long-term relationships. For daters over 50, these two platforms were recommended the most on Reddit and Quora:
#1. Bumble
Bumble had the best recommendations by far, so start here.
Whether you live in a small town or a big city, there’s usually a decent number of people to swipe on, and the user base tends to be more educated. Bumble has fewer catfish and scammers, and offers additional security with built-in video and voice calling features.
Here’s what 50+ year old Bumble users had to say:
- “It has the most normal people out of the dating apps I tried.”
- “When I first used it in 2017, I met a nice handful of nice men; it also had the most handsome and successful ones.”
- “I prefer Bumble, I just set the filters for 48 to 60 (I think). There’s no shortage of people.”
- “Bumble has built-in calling and video calling, which I like, so I don’t have to give my number right away.”
- “I had the best luck on Bumble and Hinge, and met my long-term boyfriend on Bumble.”
Download on the App Store or Google Play Store.
#2. Hinge
Hinge has a vibe similar to Bumble, with well-educated, thoughtful singles willing to put some effort into their profiles and prompts. The only downfall is that the user pool can be sparse in smaller cities.
One standout feature is that you can send a message when you “like” someone, which makes it easier to start real conversations, especially if you’re intentional about who you engage with. Hinge also has one of the best track records for filtering out scammers and fake profiles. You won’t find the same level of spam or sketchy accounts here.
Its recommendation algorithm is also top-tier. The more info you provide in your profile, like what you’re looking for, your interests, and your values, the better the app gets at suggesting people who might be a good match.
Download on the App Store or Google Play Store.
“Honorable” Mentions
These online dating sites did come up a lot, but for mixed reasons. Some love them, some hate them. So, tread carefully and try Bumble or Hinge first.
Honorable Mention #1: Tinder
Tinder has more users than any other dating platform, so your dating pool is the biggest here. But with so much quantity, quality takes a hit.
Pros:
- Lots of people to choose from. Whether you live in NYC or a hole in the ground in the middle of Texas, you’ll have options.
- It’s free to use– but so are other, better apps.
Cons:
- Scammers and catfish are abundant.
- It’s more of a hook-up-focused app.
- People don’t put in as much effort as the other apps like Bumble or Hinge.
Honorable Mention #2: Match.com
It’s a love-hate relationship for many with Match.com.
Pros:
- Lots of users are over 50 years old.
- Has in-person events sometimes.
- Highly likely to have a reasonable number of singles to swipe on in your location.
Cons:
Step 3: Choose photos for your profile.
Whether you’re using a free app or paying for a premium one, your success largely comes down to your photos. We—and thousands of other daters over 50—can’t stress this enough: great photos make all the difference.
You could be the perfect match for someone, but if your photos aren’t doing you justice, you’re missing your shot.
For context, a selfie of you taken from below-eye-level, not smiling, wearing a stained T-shirt, does not belong on any dating profile. Here are four photos that feel low effort and won’t get matches:
You need recent, well-lit photos that look like you put in effort. Dress nicely, smile, and look approachable, like you would if you met someone in person. Be aware of your surroundings and what they communicate to people who know nothing about you. Here are four examples of amazing dating profile photos:
Do yourself (and your dating life) a favor and take new photos. Aim for 3–5 recent photos:
- 1 clear headshot (smiling, good light)
- 1 full-body shot
- 1 social photo (doing something you love)
- 1 dressed-up or “event” shot
Get a friend to snap some pics of you doing something you love in natural lighting. Or, take some pictures yourself with your phone camera’s self-timer– a little goes a long way when you try!
Click here for easy-to-follow tips on taking photos of yourself for dating apps.
Before you upload your photos (new or old) to your dating profiles, test them first on Photofeeler to ensure you’re coming across as Smart, Trustworthy, and Attractive. Then, when you get the results you’re looking for, upload them to your dating profiles and watch your matches pay attention.
Step 4: Write a bio.
Let’s be honest: no one likes writing about themselves. But in the world of online dating, your bio is your handshake—it tells people who you are, what you’re about, and what kind of connection you’re looking for.
So, what makes a good bio?
The best bio is clear, warm, and specific. It gives someone a reason to message you and makes matches feel like you’re a real, grounded person, not just a profile. Try to:
-
Lead with a bit of personality.
This can be a fun fact, a lighthearted line, or a short intro like:
“I’m the type who talks to strangers in coffee shops and always has snacks in the car,” or “Retired, recharged, and finally ready to see what the next chapter looks like—with someone great.” -
Mention what you’re looking for.
Make it easy for someone to know if you’re a match. Example:
“I’d love to meet someone who enjoys great conversation, spontaneous weekend trips, and a shared bottle of wine at the end of a long day.” -
Give people something to respond to.
Conversation starters help—hobbies, favorites, routines, like:
“Ask me about the time I met Paul McCartney,” or “Lately I’ve been learning how to make sourdough. Progress is… edible.”
When in doubt, think backwards. What do you want people to ask you about, and how can your bio facilitate that?
Step 5: Stay smart, stay safe.
Online dating has opened up incredible opportunities to meet people you’d never cross paths with otherwise, but it also comes with real risks, especially for those over 50. Romance scams are on the rise, and older adults are one of the most targeted groups.
Here’s how to protect yourself without becoming paranoid:
- Avoid profiles with little info or only one photo.
- Never share personal details (address, workplace, financial info).
- Don’t immediately move the conversation to WhatsApp or Telegram—these are common channels for scammers. Stick to the app until you meet in person.
- Meet in public for the first few dates– and check where you’re meeting before you agree on the place.
- Tell a friend or family member where you’re going and who you’re meeting.
- If they ask for money, gift cards, or help with an “emergency,” block and report them immediately.
Trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is. Good matches will never pressure you, love-bomb you, or make you feel unsafe.
And boom-badda-boom– you’re ready to get swiping and start matching!
FAQ
Where can I meet older singles in real life?
Plenty of 50+ year old singles meet through:
- Hobby and interest groups: Join local art, social dance, hiking, or book clubs in your area. Check out Meetup.com for age-specific events!
- Community classes: Check local libraries and YMCAs for various activities.
- Travel groups or singles cruises: Great for socializing while exploring new places.
- Volunteering: Meet people who share your values while giving back.
- Faith-based groups: Churches, temples, and spiritual communities often host social events.
- Age-focused speed dating events: Meetup.com, Facebook events, and a quick search online of your local area will give you a few good options.
Also, never rule out meeting through mutual friends. Maybe an event won’t find you a partner, but it might find you a new acquaintance with a hot single friend. Keep an open mind and enjoy the ride.
Should I try a matchmaking service?
If you’re feeling burned out by dating apps or want a more personalized approach, matchmaking can be a great option, especially over 50.
Professional matchmakers get to know you, screen potential matches, and often arrange introductions based on compatibility, not just photos. However, most matchmakers recruit their singles directly from the apps anyway, so it makes more sense to make your online profile as good as possible before going the matchmaking route.
What if I’m not getting any matches?
Don’t get discouraged—it usually just means it’s time to make a few tweaks. Start with your photos. Are they showing you at your best? If you’re unsure, try Photofeeler to get real feedback from real people on how your photos come across—Smart, Trustworthy, Attractive. Once you know what works, swap in your strongest shots.
Still not seeing results? Revisit your bio. Make it more specific, upbeat, and true to who you are. Use the tips above, or ask a friend if it sounds like you.
Finally, consider adjusting your app filters. Expanding your age range or distance settings might reveal great matches you were unintentionally missing. Sometimes, the right person just lives one zip code over.
Final Thoughts
Dating after 50 isn’t about “settling”; it’s about confidently showcasing the real, vibrant you through your photos. Your pictures are often the first impression, so make them count!
Stay curious, stay safe, and stay open. The next chapter could be your best yet, and the right photos can help you get there.
P.S. Want to know which of your photos are truly capturing attention and sending the right message? Photofeeler offers honest feedback to help you choose your best shots, no swiping required!