The thought of the elderly getting frisky in the back seat at a drive-in is one we, as a society, would like to ignore with a shudder and a cringe; the thought of our parents, grandparents or children as sexual beings is so especially uncomfortable for us because we see these relationships as non-sexual and nurturing. But as we advance in age, we face greater odds of divorce or the death of our spouse, but not a decreased need or longing for physical contact or love. This state was traditionally the "next chapter" of a life that would fill the romantic void with platonic friends, caregivers or grandkids; but, now, it is the beginning of a new romantic second wind. If you've ever poked around on a dating site, you are sure to have noticed there are quite a few elderly people with profiles. As a matter of fact, they are the fastest growing demographic in the online dating community.
Some of their online behavior mimics their younger counterparts--men are looking for looks (Tinder, say hello to your new demo), women are the ones that initiate or decline communications. But there's also some differences that age contributes to. Women are more likely to have recently been taking care of a now deceased partner, so they tend to look for guys that are the epitome of vitality, health and mobility. Men, similarly, are looking for someone younger who can, coincidentally, take care of them--but more in the cooking, sexual needs, looking after them, and other things that look like, well, a younger relationship. Perhaps it's for that reason elder women focus their profiles on their looks and sociability, while men focus on their stability and wealth. And, much like younger daters lying about their wealth, weight and height, there is arguably a greater chance for their older counterparts to lie and fudge the truth, as time is precious and of the essence in finding a new mate.
