First Date Ideas For Over 80s

First date coming up? How lovely. At our age the best outings are unhurried, close to a comfortable seat and never far from a hot drink and a washroom. Here are six ideas that suit an 80 year old pace, whether you live in Halifax or Kelowna.

1. A Cozy Lunch

Lunch is the smart choice for a first date. Restaurants are quieter, the light is better and nobody has to drive home after dark, which in December can mean half past four. A family diner, a bistro with good soup or the restaurant at the local golf club all work well. Ask for a booth away from the kitchen, and take your time over the pie.

2. A Gentle Stroll

A short, flat walk makes conversation easy, because you are side by side instead of face to face. A waterfront boardwalk, a park with plenty of benches or a mall walk on a cold day are all ideal. Wear good shoes, and if the conversation pauses, the Canada geese will happily fill the gap.

3. A Heritage Site

Most towns have a museum, a heritage house or a pioneer village that locals rarely visit. They tend to be quiet, have seating and are full of conversation starters. Many offer a seniors rate, so it is always worth asking at the front desk.

4. A Garden Visit

Butchart Gardens near Victoria, the Montreal Botanical Garden, the Royal Botanical Gardens in Burlington or your local conservatory all make a beautiful setting. Paths are mostly level, benches are everywhere and a cafe is never far away. In winter, a heated greenhouse full of flowers is a real tonic.

5. A Museum Or Gallery

Museums and galleries are warm in winter, cool in summer and usually have elevators and seating. A favourite painting, an old photograph of your town or a display about the railway can spark stories that last all afternoon.

6. Tea For Two

A proper afternoon tea is a treat at any age. Tea rooms and some of the grand old railway hotels serve it with all the trimmings, but a cozy cafe with a butter tart and a pot of tea does the job just as well. Book ahead and mention any dietary needs.

Wherever you go, meet somewhere public, let a friend or family member know your plans, and arrange your own transportation there and home again. Most of all, enjoy each other's company.