Let's face it. Ageing can be isolating. Without the endless opportunities to socialise enjoyed by younger generations, it's easy for the over 50s who might be widowed, divorced, separated or single to slip off the relationship radar altogether. Ill health, lack of cash and low confidence can all make matters worse. As if that wasn't enough, it takes energy to start a relationship, and with a third of UK workers reporting they feel so tired when they get home that they fall asleep during the course of the evening, it's easy to understand how anyone of our age might have trouble meeting new people.

One of the main causes of isolation in later life is - perhaps unexpectedly - divorce. A survey for Saga magazine found the main reason couples split up was the sudden realisation that they had spent years focusing on being parents at the expense of being partners. When the kids leave home, these people re-evaluate what they want from the rest of their lives and separation is sometimes the result.

If we do find ourselves alone, our increasingly busy and compartmentalised lives mean it's hard to meet new people. In fact a recent survey revealed that, on average, we have 30% fewer people we feel we can turn to for a chat than our parents' generation. Overall, we have far less contact with neighbours, clubs and organisations outside the home, to the extent that over 80% of people now feel they can only discuss important matters with family members. In short, lack of meaningful relationships can be a real problem.

Before we go any further…
…let's define the word 'relationship'. It's not necessarily about romance - for many over 50s a platonic friendship and the companionship it brings might be ideal. So 'relationship' covers all the bases - everything from someone to chat with and share a problem or a bottle of wine with, through to wedded bliss and a satisfying sex life.

So if you are looking for a relationship, how do you get started? Online dating is one avenue more and more older people are exploring. The website www.over50s.com has been running a dating service since it launched in 1999 and now boasts more than 250,000 users. Some are looking for friendship, others for a long-term relationship - but all are looking for something new.

So let's recap
The internet is a great place to start if you're looking to meet people. The big advantage of online dating is that it helps those who find real-life dating too intimidating. A good online dating site allows you to write about yourself, read others' profiles and make the first tentative steps via email. A lot can take place online before you even think of arranging a meeting, so if you're looking for a new relationship, why not give it a go? You might just find the man or woman of your dreams!

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