People with Disabilities Dive into Dating

Dating is difficult. This is not new news. Looking for Mr. or Mrs. Right has always been challenging. When you add disability to the mix, dating can seem impossible. Unfortunately, people with disabilities have reported feeling rejected and ignored when wading in the dating pool.

Still, most people will admit to having a strong desire to be united with another person in life, as a partner, lover, and companion. Overcoming the negative thoughts that taunt you is the first step to finding someone special. Next, it is important to courageously get up, out, and into the world.

Here are some suggestions for anyone wanting to safely and actively pursue dating:

Dating Online

When you’re disabled it can be difficult to get out and about. This may be due to physical limitations or mental impairments. Whatever the reason, meeting people online allows you to communicate with other single people from the comfort and safety of your home.

One reason that dating online is so popular for people with and without disabilities is that people can meet without fear of instant rejection based on their looks or disability. Too often, people with visible disabilities believe they are quickly passed over by non-disabled persons. Meeting and corresponding online can allow your true spirit and unique personality to shine.

Dating Offline

Some people prefer to date offline. Being visible and fully present helps you avoid any possibility of being “led on” through false messages that can take place on dating sites. It ensures that you can see, hear and know the person you’re interested in is who he or she claims to be.

When communicating online, it is too easy to pretend to be someone who you’re not. Creating the ideal persona and failing to mention disability in an online relationship can create problems if the relationship moves forward. Dating in-person enforces a transparency which gives an honest and firm foundation on which a healthyunion can grow.

Choosing a Date

You may wonder if you should date someone who is also disabled or someone that isn’t. The choice is fairly simple–date who you find attractive. There are no rules about who you can or should date. It is most important that you are comfortable with the person and compatible.

When you decide to go out with someone, whether you met online or in-person, keep a few things in mind:

• Be confident. This is your sexiest attribute.
• Be safe. Avoid meeting in secluded places and drinking too much.
• Don’t give out personal information that can be used to track your home or work address.
• Keep a mobile phone with you.
• Let someone you trust know where you are going and for how long you’ll be gone. Be sure to check-in with this person if you choose to extend your date.

Before you go on a date, check out the place or places where you and your date plan to meet. Be sure that they accessible in the ways you need. It’s easier to focus on who you’re with when you’re not worried about the accessibility of an establishment.

If you haven’t dipped your toe in the dating pool, but long to meet Mr. or Mrs. Right, consider trying online or in-person dating. While it is important to be smart and safe when communicating with new people, it is necessary to put yourself out there, letting the world know you’re available and looking. If this thought concerns you, don’t worry. Dating has never been easy. But it is worth it. What are you waiting for? The dating pool is ready for you to dive in.