I went to a speed dating event for the first time in many years recently, where the age range was 40-55. I'm an early 50s man, myself.

There was a decent mix of women there, some attractive, some not, some I had some fantastic conversations with (in the 5 minutes we had, plus some mingling afterwards), and some exuded a "bored with this" attitude (not sure if it was about me or about the group as a whole).

I had done speed dating (and lots of online dating) in my 30s, with mixed results. Usually there'd be at least 3 or 4 matches back then.

This time - zilch.

Even the woman who was talking with me enthusiastically for 30 minutes after the event. Probably should have asked for her number then, but being new at this again, wanted to "play by the rules" (no comment, please :-) ).

One thing I noticed, I got the distinct sense that - rather than be easier to find someone (due to the "not many good men at this age" thing), it seemed harder. I got the sense that, rather than having learned from their years that a good partner you can get along with and have an intellectual connection with, similar interests, etc. was more important than the intrigue, teasing, and high SMV that the younger ones were interested - they had, if anything, become even MORE picky. Those qualities were even more important, the women hadn't really matured at all. And a man's "potential" didn't matter any more, of course, because he was already older; what mattered (besides the "exciting" qualities I mentioned) was what he had achieved, his status, prestige, etc.

What do you think, RP? True?