When you hear the word “date” what do you think? Is it a teenager hitting the town with a young love? Is it dinner and a movie with someone you’re attracted to? Or is it simply spending time with someone and enjoying their company and companionship?

Hilltop’s Senior Living Communities and the BEACON believe that love knows no age, which is why the two organizations are partnering to present seniors with the opportunity to make friends and maybe even find love.

The first Senior Speed Dating event for those 70 and better will be held on Friday, August 9, at 6:30 p.m. at The Commons of Hilltop, 625 27 1/2 Road, Grand Junction.

The atmosphere will be casual and informal. Participants will be given a match sheet and will have 5-7 minutes to sit with each person of the opposite sex to strike up a conversation and see if there is a spark.

“People often feel isolated and alone if they don’t have someone to share life’s everyday thoughts and happenings with,” said Cathy Story, Senior Director of Hilltop’s Senior Life. “We often see people struggle with loneliness and depression in their later years and know there are huge health benefits to having camaraderie and true companionship with another person.”

Not really looking for love? This is a great event for those who seek companionship and want to meet new people in a casual and stress-free environment.

“The great thing about doing an event like this is the added safety component,” said Story. “Only the participants that have both said they are interested in talking to the other person again will be given contact information after the event.”

You must preregister. The cost to register is $20 per person and includes a small selection of beer and wine and delicious appetizers from The Kitchens of Hilltop.

“Connecting with others gives us a deeper purpose to life and we hope to help seniors in our community find those relationships,” Story said.

MEN WANTED!

Register online at  www.seniordategj.com  or call BEACON Senior News at 243-8829.