First of all, may Hashem comfort you for your loss.
I was widowed a couple of years ago. But my late husband and I had both been divorced from other spouses before we got married. I am not actively looking, but if Hashem were to drop Mr. Right down from the sky for me, I’d be delighted. Here are my replies.
1. Did you get resistance or encouragement from your children? Are they married settled adults or dependent on you?
My children are all adults with their own families and not dependent on me at all. At this point in my life, I think they would encourage me.
2. Did you find anyone more than 5-10 years younger than you to have little in common and conversation uncomfortable?
I don’t think I would find this to be the case. I’d be open to such a match.
3. If you were still working or in business/profession would you only consider locals or those willing to move to your location?
I work part-time and for that and other reasons I would want someone local or willing to move to my OOT community.
4. Would you feel comfortable moving a new spouse into your home (or moving into theirs) even with redecorating and new furnishings? Or would you expect to buy and establish a new home?
My ideal spouse would move into my home, which I own outright and have made many improvements on. I’d be open to redecorating, new furnishings, etc. But if he went 50/50 with me and I sold my home and we could buy a different home in this community, I might consider it.
5. How do you regard new step family members? Can you truly blend as a senior?
I’ve had stepchildren before, and I have enough love to give not just my blood relatives but my step relatives. The way I figure, if I love my husband, I love his children too. I’d expect him to feel the same about my children.
I think you’re very brave to have put up your post. Wishing you hatzlacha in your search for a new mate.