For those of us without children, getting old alone is a real possibility. I think about it sometimes. A long term relationship would be nice. I have no doubts it will happen, eventually. Like many other people here... I may compromise on some things (that is part of being in a relationship) but I won’t lower my standards.

FWB! Anticipation, participation, and never losing control of the remote!

I was more afraid of a new relationship than getting old alone. But, finding a like-minded and companionable friend has broken down lots of walls. But if it ever becomes dysfunctional, bye-bye.

I have always chosen to be alone rather than be in a dysfunctional relationship. That prompted my divorce from my 1st husband and the end of the 2 relationships I've had since my husband died.

Then there is the fact that nothing ventured nothing gained therefore even though I seriously doubt there is another person out there for me I cannot say I am choosing to be alone. Instead I'm still choosing to be choosy.

Not just I am not afraid, I will be happier being single. We have been told time and again and there is something wrong if we do not have a partner. PDA (public display) and showing off your boyfriend or girlfriend to others are born out of wanting being normal and fitting in to the common perception. American capitalism has been consistently telling us what to have every day such as a single house in a suburb, a three car garage, a gated community, certain cars, a fitness program or a gym membership, being thin, a European vacation, expensive manicure, pedicure (when we can easily do at home) and happy photos like other have on walls and desks and on Facebook.

We are continuously told how to be complete. We do not think ourselves who and what we want to be. The toilet paper sell-out in this virus scare is a good example of how we react to the news and want to do what others are doing. You can simply use water if you don't have paper. More than half of the world does not use toilet paper which is also not hygienic.

There are plenty of advantages in being single such as total freedom, more money, maintain the lifestyle you want, go and come and do things as you please. But more than that, we often get into relationships for the wrong reasons, especially in or after middle age. Financial, medical, care taking etc. These are wrong reasons to have company for. Trying to find love all your life is called the Cinderella Syndrome. Both men and women have it.

Wanting a companion because we are getting old is exactly the wrong reason to want one IMHO.

I definitely don't want a relationship just to say I'm in one. However, I want...hell...I crave a special someone in my life. I want long deep conversations. I want good sex. I want cuddling.

I wouldn't make the decision to remain alone like that.. I'd remain open to the possibility of meeting someone if that someone came along..

I think that choosing to be alone rather than being in a dysfunctional relationship is a life changing move. It has taken me quite a long time to learn this lesson. While I am not afraid of getting old alone, I would much rather have a loving functional relationship.

I am not afraid of aging alone, but I do not like it. I certainly am open to the possibility of a relationship but understand the unlikeliness of that happening at this point. Of course, I am not interested in a dysfunctional relationship.

i am alone but always open to a new beginning

When you are by yourself, you are not alone. And yes, life with the wrong partner is miserable. Been there, done that.

I was "the marrying man"...married 4 times....a total of nearly 30 years....so I worked hard to make it happen. But...it just didn't. I'm sad that I'm "alone" and would sure like a female "companion" but....I've turned out to be too fussy. or too particular...or too quick to jump in to a relationship...so now I'm adapting to - being alone. But...I do love my "alone" time more than ever!

Withdrew myself from the dating rush sometime back . Better off on my own . Since then two gentlemen have written looking for a wife to raise their toddler/preschool children . Really ? ?

Nope but not afraid but the right companion would be good

If someone is not in a relationship because they are afraid of settling, then they are settling for nothing.

Yes, I decided better alone than settling. I have adult kids and grands so never truly alone. I will not settle for just anyone to avoid being alone. I like being alone much of the time.

I won't settle and until I meet someone who is right I am fine the way I am. That may never happen and if so I still have a full life. Great friends, family and work that is fulfilling.

I have been alone most of my life ,even feel that way in crowds at times,I have lots of friend and out for meals many times a month ,been with lots of women but the ones i have had a heart felt connection with were taken and i have no intention of breaking up a marriage as I do not want it done to me,But being older now i want to be with one for many reason,,

According to you there are only two options. I believe there is a third.

Totally agree and we have discussed the danger of getting involved in a relationship filled with 'drama." Yes it is tempting to get involved come what may but I have done that before and all I have to do is remember what it was like. Nooo thanks.

Yes!!!
Sometimes or is it most times it is so much easier to deal with ones self than deal with another one!!!

no one should tolerate abuse.

so much depends on attitude as well as past experiences, skills to deal with life / 'give & take' necessary for a healthy relationship....
Some ppl can't compromise, they think it's 'evil'

Not sure I understand this way of thinking since you’re in control of what you allow in to your life and you set the limits as to what you will and won’t accept.

Oh man, are you replaceable? Chances are very likely. Best luck.

I can relate