Finding Love for the Boomers Over 50

When I was researching web sites about retirement life, I concluded that the boomers are just as obsessed with love and sex now, as they were forty years ago.

With the divorce rate still high, many women over 50 are interested in senior dating. The Dating Goddess found herself single at 48. She started dating eighteen months later and has been writing about it ever since. While an excellent writer, she's the 'every woman' self described as attractive but overweight who doesn't match the description of what men say they are looking for.

Dubbed the Dating Goddess by her friends she offers solid advice with a touch of humor and real heart.

When asked what are the mistakes women over 50 make when they start dating, she replied:

They either shoot too high or too low. They shoot too high by having grandiose expectations that their next mate will meet all 100 of their criteria, rather than looking for someone who matches their values and who is attractive to them.

By shooting too low they accept selfish, immature behaviors out of loneliness. They are so desperate to have someone to go to the movies with or cuddle with, they accept loutish behaviors.

You can read the full article at the retirement life matters website.

Wanting love doesn't change as we grow older. Finding help and support along the way is great for anyone.

Retirement Work

I made a request last week for stories of people who found interesting jobs in retirement. I had a great response and will be sharing these in the upcoming weeks.
I want more stories, so be on the lookout for retired jobs to share with others.

Margarite shared her experience as a substitute teacher. She lives in California, so you will want to check out the requirements for your state.

My idea for part time work is Substitute Teaching. I did it the entire time I was working on my MA and it worked well for me. I had a special credential that allowed me to work in high schools also, so switched to that level. All one needs to Sub is a BA in any area, the schools are flexible if you have a Math degree they will let you work in pretty much anything one wants to do, PE, science, debate, I did both boys and girls PE, band and orchestra as they just needed a certified Sub in the room. I knew enough Spanish & French to get by, so one can sign up for anything really. One doesn’t need a Teacher’s Certificate to Sub, just a BA and the CBEST test. It is given frequently and there are books available to study for it. It tests in 3 areas, English writing, Math and Grammar. The best book is CBEST for Dummies. One can take the test as many times as needed to pass, then a TB test and go off to whatever school district needs subs. The pay is usually $80 to over $120+/day depending on school districts and if extended subbing is needed. Who knows if the person enjoys it they might even want to become a Teacher!

In retirement, teachers are also returning to substituting. There are many other areas where you can work with children. If you don’t have a degree, you might look at being an aid in a classroom or childcare facility. Look at programs in non-profits, such as the YMCA and Boys and Girls Clubs, and programs through your park and recreation. Consider being a tutor. Parents are always looking for qualified babysitters, for the night, weekend or when they travel. There is always a need for foster parents and foster grandparents.

The new retirement should be called Retirement Inc. The boomers retirement will be different. Now is the time to create your own retirement income security.