Is it a good idea to date a widow?

Dating a widow or widower may take patience, a willingness to embrace the spouse who has died, and a commitment to step gingerly when it comes to introductions to friends and family. And its not right for everyone. The result, though, can be a positive, successful bond.

How soon should a widow start dating?

If you need to make important decisions, you should wait for at least one to two years following such a significant loss. This will give you sufficient time to process the death, go through the stages of grief, and regain some of your diminished cognitive capacities. You might consider therapy or counseling.