As daunting as it may seem, seeking a new relationship by re-entering the dating scene is possible at any age.

Coping with divorce or the breakup of a serious relationship can be one of life's most difficult challenges. Yet pursuing new relationships after becoming single is part of the healing process.

There's no right time to start dating after a divorce. Depending on the circumstances of your breakup, you may not feel ready for a few months or a few years.

Either way, keep these suggestions in mind before you take the plunge:

• Take time for you. Chances are that when you were married, you pursued activities you and your spouse could do together. Before you jump into another relationship that might limit your interests, sign up for a class you always wanted to take, volunteer for a cause you believe in, or hone your hobbies. Such pursuits can make you more interesting, and they're good ways to find new friends.
• Watch out for low self-esteem. If you feel great about yourself post-divorce, good for you. However, the battering of divorce proceedings leaves most folks with a less positive self-image. To put your best self forward, spend some time rebuilding your confidence.
• Beware of certain times of year. Whether it's your first post-divorce holiday season, your birthday, or the anniversary of your wedding or divorce decree, intense emotion is bound to occur at such times. Make a plan ahead of time to get through such painful reminders of the past. That plan can help keep you focused on the future.
• Be careful of the rebound effect. Feeling desperate for a date or a connection to quell your loneliness can be dangerous. You could find yourself in questionable company or unhealthy relationships.
• Ask for help. When you're sure you're ready to put yourself out there, ask your friends, family, and coworkers if they know anyone who might be right for you. Don't be shy. Ask them to set you up on a blind date or join you on a double date.

Online Dating
There are plenty of places to meet potential dates. However, more and more people of all ages (especially those 50 and older) end up looking for love on online dating sites.

These tips can help you keep the experience rewarding and safe:

• Find the right site for you. You probably feel more comfortable in some gathering places than others. The same holds true for Internet dating sites. Before creating a profile, spend some time checking out different sites and getting a feel for the type of people each one attracts. In addition to major sites that advertise on TV, specialty dating sites attract people of specific religions, races, interests--you name it.
• Write your profile with care. Be clear about your values, your lifestyle, and how you like to spend your time. Ask a friend to help you pick a picture and proofread your profile before you submit it.
• Be cautious. Not being too trusting of people you connect with online can keep you safe. So can meeting for a first date in a restaurant or other public place. Get to know the person better before you wind up in his or her car or apartment.

Being patient with yourself as you begin to focus on your life to come, rather than your painful past, can help you love again.

By Barbara Floria, senior writer for Vitality. For more information, visit AARP at www.aarp.org.

© Krames StayWell. Information is the opinion of the sourced authors and organizations. Personal decisions regarding health, diet, and exercise should be made only after consultation with the reader's own medical advisers. This material may not be reproduced for redistribution without written permission from Krames StayWell.