101 Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers Dating should be a fun experience at any age. It is a great way to meet new people, find someone to do things with and make some great memories. There are many resources about dating for teens and young adults, however there is little information geared to older adults. Some questions about dating are the same for everyone, regardless of age, such as how to recognize and keep abuse out of the relationship. Older adults may also have other concerns. Did you know? Many older adults are concerned about violence or abuse at the hands of a stranger. They worry about being robbed or home invasion. Very few seniors are harmed in this way. Most violence and abuse of older adults is by a loved one. Research studies show that older women and men are more likely to be physically abused by their spouse, common-law partner or significant other rather than by a stranger. Tips for Protecting Your Safety There are many ways to meet that special someone such as through friends, social events, or a blind date. Another popular way is through Internet dating sites and chatrooms. If you do not know the person you plan to date, be cautious about how much information you give out and where and when you meet him or her. How can I protect myself if I go out with someone? Here are a few tips on how to be safe when you start to date, especially someone that you do not already know. • Take time to get to know each other. Get to know your friend better. Ask lots of questions. If the other person won’t answer all your questions, he or she may be trying to hide something. • Arrange to meet in a public place. At your first meeting, arrange to meet your date at a public place where there will be other people close by, such as a restaurant, a social club or a café. Ask your date to join you on an outing with a group of people or go out with another couple or trusted friend. Be careful about inviting someone to meet you at your house. If things don’t work out, you may not want that person to know where you live. • Use your own transportation. Arrange your own transportation to get to the date and don’t offer to pick up the other person. • Be cautious if you are drinking. Alcohol can affect your judgment and lessen your inhibitions. Be alert as possible on a first date with someone you have never met. Also, never leave your drink unattended. • Listen to your instincts. If something does not feel right, it probably is not. Call a friend or a family member and leave as soon as possible. • Always let someone know where you are going. Tell someone where you are going and who you'll be with. Check in with friends or family after the date. • Give your date your cell phone number. Until you get to know the person better, do not give out your address or any information which would help someone find you. If you want your date to call you again, be safe and use your cell phone number. People can find where you live from your home phone number. What should I know about safety when using chatrooms or an Internet dating service? There are dozens of Internet dating sites to choose from so ask some friends or family members about their experiences with such sites. Find out if the website has a strict privacy policy posted. Be sure that the people you chat with cannot find out your name or where you live. When creating your profile, do not use your real name or give your address, workplace, phone number, or any other information that could identify you. Be cautious about providing information on ARE YOU DATING? - OLDER ADULTS AND HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS continued
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