Every dating site has their unique way of pairing people up-from personality tests to curated content, in a competitive field, standing out can be impactful. Dr. Thomas shares for the 50 and up demographic, having multiple ways to interact with members and matches makes it less likely folks will leave. With OurTime, you not only receive 10 recommended could-be-loves-of-your-life, but you’re also able to search on your own. And once you have found someone you’re intrigued by, there are many ways to chat with them (if you have a paid membership that is). With ConnectMe, you can take your conversation and budding banter offline with a phone call or a text, all while keeping your number hidden. This allows you to scope out if someone is a chemistry match for you, without running the risk of a stage-one stalker impeding your phone. For 50+ singles who are worried about privacy-or can’t stand to text for days beyond end-this is a solid feature.
Pro : Their matching system works.
…if you’re truthful that is, Dr. Thomas reminds. OurTime allows for its members to specify who they are and the kind of person they are looking for, along with ranking some interests, such as cooking, movies, reading, and live theater. They also ask about characteristics including how romantic and patient they are. If these are all answered honestly, a member can see how compatible he or she may be to another member, she continues. Remember, this part of the profile process is optional, but if you’re really looking for someone to build a life with or spend time with, it’s essential.
Wait, that was a pro, right? Yep-but that doesn’t mean it isn’t a downfall, too. For those people who are fresh out of a divorce or a long-term relationship, understanding exactly what you want is discovered through exploration. While you think you might want to be with someone who is around your age, you could be energized by someone younger who inspires you in a different way. Or, the type of people you want to meet wouldn’t sign-up for a site with specifications. Whatever the case, Dr. Thomas shares a downfall of OurTime is that it can feel limiting to some singles. Since there is a free version, it’s worth a shot to see if this is a good or a bad thing for your lifestyle and dating preferences.
Con : A lot of members window shop.
It’s the advice you’ve heard and given-but Dr. Thomas says the app is set up to foster a grass is always greener’ mentality. On your profile and homepage, you can see who you’ve liked, who has liked you and how you’ve interacted with various members. This is a helpful database, sure, but it can also give you the ego boost you need, without much effort on your part. On OurTime, so people are mere window shoppers who don’t make an active effort to get offline and meet up in person. Though this is the case on any dating website, it might be more so with an older crowd, who isn’t as mobile as younger generations.
Con : Ghosting is real.
Even in the 50 and older demographic, people bailing out of the blue happens more often than you think. Referred to as ghosting , you might have to Google this dating term or ask your grandchild about it, but with so many active members, it’s normal to strike up a conversation with someone, only for them to flat-out disappear on you.Members can lose interest or get distracted by so many choices that it may be difficult to connect with someone or find someone who wants a serious relationship. People can suddenly disappear with no further communication or explanation, Dr. Thomas warns. To lessen the odds of this happening, consider searching by most recently active’ and trying your best to set up a date sooner than later, so you aren’t left hanging 
