New dating revolution: People over-50s find love through this 'Tinder for elderly' app
- Replies 26
Have you been meaning to find a meaningful and loving relationship but are unaware of where to start?
Well, you’re in luck because this new dating app called Stitch is defying the odds and breaking new ground in the world of online dating, offering a platform for those over 50 to connect and find love.
This innovative app, often referred to as the 'Tinder for the elderly', is rapidly gaining popularity, with its user base growing from 18,000 to 25,000 in just a month.
Unlike Tinder, which is an online dating app where users 'swipe right' to like or 'swipe left' to dislike other users' profiles and is often associated with casual hookups, Stitch is designed to cater to the unique needs of the over-50 demographic, providing a platform for both romantic and platonic relationships.
The app offers a refreshing a space for seniors to connect over shared interests and activities such as salsa dancing, wine tasting, or movie-watching.
The app's co-founder, Marcie Rogo, initially bristled at the comparison to Tinder but soon realised that it was helping potential users find Stitch.
'At first, I was really offended [about the association with Tinder], but then I realised that a lot of our users have found us by Googling “Tinder for seniors” because they know their kids are on it and they're wondering if there's something for them,' she said.
‘We definitely built Stitch to be accessible for any senior,’ Rogo said.
‘People felt like they were a burden on their families and that they were meant to kind of just sit there. Grandparents are kind of seen as annoying, or a burden or they're far away and you never get to see them.’
‘This is not the way you're supposed to treat people that are going through a process that is inevitable,’ Rogo added.
Much like Tinder, Stitch operates by showing users one profile at a time, sending alerts when a mutual interest is indicated. However, Stitch goes a step further by verifying its members through a process that includes scanning and submitting a driver’s license to the company. This ensures a safe and secure environment for users to connect.
Once verified, members can chat with each other through the app or over the phone before deciding to meet in person.
They can also participate in local group activities, coordinate travel plans, chat in the community forum, or browse profiles in search via the mobile app or desktop site.
Since its launch in July 2022, Stitch has seen impressive growth and has raised $1 million in its first six months. It has also expanded its user base significantly.
Despite competition from established dating platforms like Match, OkCupid, and Tinder, Stitch has carved out a unique niche for itself.
Looking ahead, Rogo stated their team has ambitious plans for Stitch. She hopes to raise a round of venture capital, partner with major media companies, and offer more travel opportunities to its users. She also isn't ruling out the possibility of an initial public offering IPO.
'I think an IPO is definitely a possibility if we can get to that size and really be the destination for social connections in later years,' Rogo said.
However, as with any online app, it's important for users to exercise caution when using these apps. This includes protecting personal information, meeting in public places, and informing friends or family about meetups.
What are your thoughts on this new trend in online dating for seniors? Have you or someone you know tried Stitch or a similar platform? Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below.
Well, you’re in luck because this new dating app called Stitch is defying the odds and breaking new ground in the world of online dating, offering a platform for those over 50 to connect and find love.
This innovative app, often referred to as the 'Tinder for the elderly', is rapidly gaining popularity, with its user base growing from 18,000 to 25,000 in just a month.
Unlike Tinder, which is an online dating app where users 'swipe right' to like or 'swipe left' to dislike other users' profiles and is often associated with casual hookups, Stitch is designed to cater to the unique needs of the over-50 demographic, providing a platform for both romantic and platonic relationships.
Stitch was designed to cater to the needs of those over 50 years old and is a platform for both platonic and romantic relationships. Image source: stitch.net.
The app offers a refreshing a space for seniors to connect over shared interests and activities such as salsa dancing, wine tasting, or movie-watching.
The app's co-founder, Marcie Rogo, initially bristled at the comparison to Tinder but soon realised that it was helping potential users find Stitch.
'At first, I was really offended [about the association with Tinder], but then I realised that a lot of our users have found us by Googling “Tinder for seniors” because they know their kids are on it and they're wondering if there's something for them,' she said.
‘We definitely built Stitch to be accessible for any senior,’ Rogo said.
‘People felt like they were a burden on their families and that they were meant to kind of just sit there. Grandparents are kind of seen as annoying, or a burden or they're far away and you never get to see them.’
‘This is not the way you're supposed to treat people that are going through a process that is inevitable,’ Rogo added.
Much like Tinder, Stitch operates by showing users one profile at a time, sending alerts when a mutual interest is indicated. However, Stitch goes a step further by verifying its members through a process that includes scanning and submitting a driver’s license to the company. This ensures a safe and secure environment for users to connect.
Stitch is an online dating app connecting those above 50 years old. Image source: Pixabay from pexels
Once verified, members can chat with each other through the app or over the phone before deciding to meet in person.
They can also participate in local group activities, coordinate travel plans, chat in the community forum, or browse profiles in search via the mobile app or desktop site.
Since its launch in July 2022, Stitch has seen impressive growth and has raised $1 million in its first six months. It has also expanded its user base significantly.
Despite competition from established dating platforms like Match, OkCupid, and Tinder, Stitch has carved out a unique niche for itself.
Looking ahead, Rogo stated their team has ambitious plans for Stitch. She hopes to raise a round of venture capital, partner with major media companies, and offer more travel opportunities to its users. She also isn't ruling out the possibility of an initial public offering IPO.
'I think an IPO is definitely a possibility if we can get to that size and really be the destination for social connections in later years,' Rogo said.
However, as with any online app, it's important for users to exercise caution when using these apps. This includes protecting personal information, meeting in public places, and informing friends or family about meetups.
.png){kind=icon}
but not really on my bucket list. 
