Dating at 78

[Sadieandannasmum]

I am twice widowed each marriage lasted 25 years plus. I am now quite lonely and would like some male company on a companionship/friendship level. I am thinking of using a dating site and would like help and advice in doing this please. The site would have to be completely free as my finances are quite low after the latest rounds of price rises.

Chapter 2 is specifically for people widowed and can be used free, though you have to pay for some things, some people on there put an email address on their profile to get round it. Facebook also has a free dating app. be careful, there are a lot of odd people on these sites and fake profiles.

Be careful of dating sites and Facebook. Lots of people trying to scam you. How about joining a local group, something you enjoy or want to learn. Eg. Walking, craft, history. Women's Institure, Men's Shed. How about volunteering.
If you're not sure how to find a group, your local council may have Community connectors or similar who can help find local groups.
If you do join a dating app, don't send anyone any money, no matter what sob story they tell or investment they offer you. Talk to a family member or someone you trust before agreeing to anything.

Please try not to use these sites as they’re full of conmen. I know that doesn’t help you but these guys are good at their game. Sometimes it’s even organised crime! Sadly l happen to know a couple of women who have had this done to them. Police said it’s rife. Better to go somewhere where you actually see and meet them. Good luck

If you were my mum I’d be worried about the potential risks for you online, but I’d def recommend u3a / walking groups / dancing / over 50s friendship groups / volunteering etc as ways to meet real people and form proper friendships. Good luck xx.

I have used a (paid - Match) dating website and happily it worked out well. However I tell everyone to avoid free ones like the plague. They’re often full of people that are not doing it for the right reasons, people who pay have a better chance of being legit. Not always of course, but your chances are better.

Sorry I cannot advise which one to use, I used Match and was fine, but there maybe better ones for your specified age range.

Any photos avoid any background in the photo that would give your location away, meet at a neutral venue that has other people around - a serene pub or restaurant would do.

good luck, sounds like you have a nice future ahead.