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Dating help for Mom

I am a 32-year-old woman who just started dating again after a divorce. My 62-year-old mom (widowed for four years) has been hinting that she'd like to find someone special again, too. She wants to go clubbing with me, but I don't think it's the kind of thing she should be doing at her age. What can I suggest (beyond church) so that we can pursue things separately?
B.D., South Carolina

I'm betting that the last thing your mom wants to do is to go clubbing and that what she's really looking for is a little companionship. Dating at any age can be difficult; trying to get your groove back after being off the scene for a long time is downright scary.

Don't feel like you have to take Mom with you and your girlfriends each time you head out. Instead, spend some quality time helping her develop her own social network and boosting her confidence so she won't be so dependent on you. Encourage her to take a class or to spend time volunteering so that she can meet people. Give her an introduction to online dating by helping her write a personal ad and showing her how to respond to an interesting profile. Scout together for singles events that cater to her own age group.

Once you get her going, don't forget to be a friend. Nothing is more important than having someone who will listen. Be supportive and honest to help her navigate the dating waters.

And while you're setting Mom up for success, don't forget to explore similar options for yourself. Clubbing with pals can be fun, but it's not a great way to meet great guys. You can't really get to know someone over ear-splitting music and under the influence of alcohol.