Many older singles find it challenging to find love in today’s dating landscape, with a record number of Danes living alone. Gittemay Petersen, a 66-year-old woman, shares her experiences navigating the modern dating scene after re-entering it eight years ago following two long-term relationships.

Petersen describes her initial shock at the transformation of dating, from Runningdinner and dance parties to the prevalence of apps like Tinder, which she found to be a “terrible concept” that “does something terrible to people.” Her experiences included dating around 25 men in one summer, leading to “funny, but also completely shocking experiences.” She now focuses on seeking love in the real world through activities like rowing, golf, cultural events, and group trips for singles, despite the challenges she faces.

Petersen notes that it’s more difficult to date the older you get, and that older women often feel invisible, with men their age often seeking younger partners. She also points out the challenge of the emotional “baggage” that comes with age and past relationships, and that people are more cautious of other peoples’ baggage.

Despite the difficulties, Petersen remains open to finding love, but her expectations have changed. She no longer seeks “the last great love,” nor does she demand perfection, and instead emphasizes the importance of finding a caring and present partner. Her perspective on love has evolved with age, recognizing that physical appearance is not the most important aspect and that true connection lies in accepting each other as they are.