I've always dated and associated with other individuals. If I tallied up and averaged the ages of the men and women I've dated in my life, there is probably about a 10-15 yr difference on average. when I was 18, my bf at the time was 36; the last time I dated a man was in 2005, I was 20 and he was 56 yr old politician. As a matter of fact, I've been friends with my best platonic male friend for about nine years now and he is 13 years older than me.
All in all, I value my interactions with older individuals much more than younger ppl because there is much to be learned from from them. More life experience, wisdom, accomplishments, etc... During my teenage years I used to hang out with my best guy friend and all of his mid-30s to 50s male buddies and they used to school me about women, dating, career and numerous other areas of life that my younger associates had yet to experience. Moreover, I attribute a portion of my knowledge on financial investments, professional networking and politics, as well as my above-average maturity level, to several of my relationships with older individuals.
I think success for dating older people has much to do with your own self-esteem, maturity and confidence. If you can maintain your sense of self, keep your eyes open about his intentions and carry yourself as a woman of class, intelligence and confidence AGE AINT NOTHIN BUT A NUMBER. You can command just as much respect as any older woman and demand even more respect from your partner.
Just try dating the guy, you might like it....if not, you may still learn a lot.