Dating is such an individual, personal experience - it's best to try it for yourself. What didn't work for someone might work for you and vice versa.
I'm a fan of the apps - because it's just another way to meet people. They're all the same really and most people are on Tinder, Bumble or Hinge in London - or multiple apps. Most important is to not waste time messaging too much, and organise a meet up quickly. Treat it like you would meeting someone in real life - you could have great chemistry at work or a pub or at an event and then after a few dates realise you're not compatible. An app just speeds up the process a bit as it's more intentional. I've used them on and off since 2014 and met my ExH on Tinder (who was a thoroughly decent man) and my current DP on Bumble. I had far worse dating experiences with people i met in real life, like a colleague and a friend of a friend. Rubbish men are rubbish no matter where you meet them.
Vet profiles thoroughly - profiles with too many selfies, emojis, nothing in the bio etc avoid. If they turn the convo to sex or flirting before the first date, avoid. I personally think it's a good idea to have sex early on so you don't waste time if that's rubbish, but you do what feels comfortable for you. If you can't separate sex and emotion, then wait. Casual sex is great but only if you don't get attached just because he cuddles you after sex. It just means he enjoys affection, not that he wants a relationship. Don't take their relationship desires personally either. I see so many women complain about profiles where guys say they want casual, or don't want to settle down etc - and I think, so what, just don't match with him. Even before the apps, if you asked every guy you worked with or met in a pub - there'd be plenty who didn't want a relationship..People all date differently and want different things - nothing to do with you. Remember, they're all strangers.
Take men at face value i.e if he says he's after casual, don't think it's getting serious just because he treats you well. If he says he's got baggage and not ready for commitment, don't think you can change him.
Mostly just have a thick skin and don't take rejection personally. Like you wouldn't give up finding a new job just because you got rejected by a few. You don't need every man to fancy you or want to date you/have a relationship with you - just one! You won't be everyone's cup of tea and they won't be yours.
Defo try hobbies, events, activities as well - so the apps don't become your entire social life. It's an exciting time! Plenty of divorcees in their 40s looking for similar to you. It can get tiring and rubbish after a few too many bad dates, so take frequent breaks when you're feeling jaded. Only ever bring your best self to the table, the other times just do your own thing. Hope this helps.