The 'Age of Love' for West Shore seniors

"The Age of Love" documentary, showing at the Westlake Center for Community Services on Feb. 12, follows 10 seniors as they prepare for a speed dating event. Photo courtesy theageoflovemovie.com

When chocolate hearts replace chocolate Santas in the world of retail, we know that Valentine's Day is just around the corner. Companionship and love never go out of style, although courtship rituals have changed over the years. Enter the world of Senior Speed Dating! Intrigued? You can find out more by registering to view "The Age of Love" documentary at the Westlake Center for Community Services. 

This free movie screening is scheduled for Friday, Feb. 12, at 1 p.m., and is open to Plus Fifty residents of the West Shore (reservations are required, 899-3544). The "Age of Love" is a story of the universality of love and desire, regardless of age. In fact, the goal is to empower seniors to see themselves in a new way that is not limited by social stereotypes.

A first-of-its-kind-Speed Dating event for 70- to 90-year-olds serves as the backdrop for this documentary, which offers an alternately poignant and funny look at the search for love among the senior set. Over one summer, the cameras follow as 10 speed daters, recently widowed, long-divorced or never married, prepare for the big day, endure a rush of encounters, then anxiously receive their results. Fearlessly candid about themselves and what they are seeking, these WWII babies are forced to take stock of life-worn bodies and still-hopeful hearts. Bittersweet moments reveal how worries over physical appearance, romance and rejection, loss and new beginnings change – or don't change – from first love to the far reaches of life.

Married couples would enjoy this documentary just as much as singles. A discussion, facilitated by Center Director, Lydia Gadd will follow. Then a few weeks later, for those who are interested in potentially meeting a new friend, or a potential mate, we will be hosting a separate Senior Mix and Mingle Event.  Information can be obtained from our newsletter which can be found online at www.cityofwestlake.org under the Community Services Department tab. If you are not inclined to use the internet, give us a call at 440-899-3544, or stop in and see us at 29694 Center Ridge Road, and inquire about our mailing list.

Curious, but still not sure? You can view the movie trailer at TheAgeofLoveMovie.com.