The Romance and Dating in Later Life project explores views and experiences of dating, romance, and sex through interviews and focus group discussions with single and recently-partnered adults aged 55+ in Arizona.
Our study is focused on understanding what dating and romance looks like in this stage of life - for example, how older adults look for partners, what those dating experiences are like, what kinds of factors older adults consider when they enter into relationships, and why older adults might choose to remain single. Among those who are in romantic relationships that began later in life, we are interested in understanding how you found a partner, what kind of relationship and partner you were seeking, how you experience your relationship, etc.
Eligible participants are aged 55 or older, currently single (whether actively dating or not dating), or in a romantic relationship that began at age 55 or later. Participants must reside in Arizona. We are interested in interviewing people of any gender identity and any sexual orientation.
We conducted 67 one-on-one interviews as well as focus group discussions (group interviews) in the Phoenix metro area from October 2022 through June 2023.
Please contact us (information below) if you would like more information. You can read our preliminary report on key findings here.