Campus Connection

Meet new friends, companions at first speed dating event for older adults

College is no longer a place where young love emerges. It’s also where senior citizens can find a relationship too thanks to a UW-La Crosse Sociology of Generations & Age class. The class is hosting a “Senior Speed Dating for Companionship 65+" event Wednesday, Nov. 28, on campus. The event aims to emphasize that love, attraction and friendship aren’t limited to a particular age. “Older adults want love and companionship in their lives, but there is rarely a central place for them to gather devoted to this,” explains UWL Associate Professor of Sociology Dawn Norris. “Social isolation is a common problem for older adults, so this event will serve as a place for them to get out and have fun, meet new friends and possibly begin a romantic relationship.” The event is free, but space is limited. Participants must register in advance by contacting Alyssa, a UWL student and organizer, at 507.327.3891 or speeddating.lacrosse@gmail.com.

“Older adults want love and companionship in their lives, but there is rarely a central place for them to gather,” says UWL Associate Professor of Sociology Dawn Norris.

Event check in is at 1:45 p.m. The event runs from 2:15 p.m.-3:30 p.m., in room 3110, Student Union, 521 East Ave. N, La Crosse. Speed dating is a fun, lively way to meet like-minded singles without a commitment, notes Norris. Whether seeking a companion or a soulmate, it is a chance to get to know a variety of interesting people in a series of five-minute chats. Light refreshments and hors d'oeuvres will be served. The event was designed by Norris’ Sociology of Generation & Age class, and will be planned, advertised and conducted by her students. The event is modeled after the “Age of Love” documentary directed by Steven Loring. Similar events have been held across the country.

University support for an increasingly age-diverse population

The speed dating event is one way faculty at UW-La Crosse are responding to the interests, needs and opportunities for the growing, aging population in the Coulee Region. Earlier this year, UWL was designated as an Age-Friendly University — the first university in the state to attain the designation. The Age-Friendly University (AFU) initiative is an international effort led by Dublin City University to highlight the role higher education can play in responding to the challenges and opportunities associated with an aging population. Five faculty members are part of the UWL’s Gerontology Emphasis Group, including Norris, and they are leading the charge of raising awareness and educating students about aging issues, along with building support for an increasing age-diverse population.