Dating With Disabilities: How to Break the Ice Online

In today’s world, online dating favors physicality. Opinions are based on looks, not personality which can be hard for someone dating with disabilities.

The first-marriage rate is only 24.4 per 1,000 amongst people with a disability, compared to those without one which is higher at 48.9.

People with disabilities typically don’t start dating until much later in life. To better the odds, read these tips for improving your online dating game.

Breaking the Ice When Dating with Disabilities

When it comes to this subject, many able-bodied people don’t know what to do. They don’t know how to approach it.

Should they mention how your wheelchair matches your outfit nicely in your picture? Or they wonder if it’s insensitive to ask a lot of questions.

Follow these tips to break the ice effectively.

Include Humor into Awkward Situations

When you infuse humor into the situation, your potential date becomes a little more at ease. It also shows your confidence.

This initiates the conversation for you to be further open, which leads on to the next topic.

It’s Okay to Mention Your Disability If It’s Not Noticeable

Be sure to discuss it in a lighthearted way and not as a burden. When you’re positive about it, everyone else will be too.

People will have questions and if you’re uncomfortable answering, tell them. If they don’t understand why then they aren’t right for you.

Embrace Rejection

This part of dating with disabilities is hard but most important. If you’ve been rejected, take it in stride. For whatever reason they’re not interested, move on.

When the right one comes along, you’ll know. They’re interested in you and the greatness you have to offer.

If you’re finding a lot of people are asking too many questions, here’s how to fill out your online profile.

Information to Include in Your Online Dating Profile

Do your research when it comes to finding an online dating site. Some are for those with disabilities while others may have a small section for it.

Once you find one or two you like, now it’s time to fill out your information. Here’s what to include in all the sections.

Description

Honesty is the best policy, right?

When it’s time to write your ‘about me’ section, be honest about your disability. Hiding it will only catch your potential date off guard if you show up in a wheelchair or with a carer.

Photos

Smile! Your smile explains a lot more about you than your disability does. Potential dates will see this and are invited to learn more.

It’s okay if you don’t feel comfortable posting a photo of yourself right away.

Instead, add one when you’re ready. This gives a chance for you to be seen by your personality first.

Wrapping Up

Online dating is a world of chance. Some people are narrow-minded while others are a great catch.

When it comes to dating with disabilities, remember to be honest. It’s not worth it to chase someone who doesn’t want to be. You’ll know in your heart when the right one is there. Until then, contact us today to get started on your profile!