The disabled dating service however is not just for those who are challenged by impairments. They are open to family and friends, care givers and professionals as well as those looking for a compatible friend or partner who may happen to have a disability. Most sites have something for everyone on them.

The most obvious service offered on the sites is of course dating and matchmaking. Some sites act as introduction services while others are aimed at long-term relationships and finding marriage partners. Usually the higher is the fee paid to access the various levels in the site, the more intensive and informative the search. The disabled dating service itself puts in a lot of time and expense in verifying the information provided and thus charge the subscribers accordingly. Free sites usually do not verify information while others may require their members to fill in detailed questionnaires about themselves and their preferences. Certain highly paid sites may even hold personal interviews to ensure that the posted profiles are accurate and to enable a scientific matching process.

Apart from dating, the resources that most disabled dating service offer are articles and news updates, links to other relevant sites, discussions of safety and legal issues as well as well as tips and guidance on successful dating. Many give their members a chance to air their thoughts and feelings through message boards, chat rooms and social forums. Journals documenting experiences and poetry are included to give the site a more personal feel.

With so many similar sites on the net, some disabled dating service offer additional resources to help set them apart and attract users. Some sites offer humour, others information and guidance on travelling. Some may have a virtual casino, others may conduct weekly polls - and some may even give users an opportunity to send virtual kisses!

Choosing an appropriate disabled dating service can be confusing with this range of services. Being clear about why one is accessing a site is a start in the right direction. Some services stress the dating component. Others however may be looking to build an online community that offers support and guidance to those living with a disability. For these sites dating is just one of the services they offer. Some introduction services stop short at just that, preferring to let their members interact and find out if they are compatible. But other disabled dating services take a one-to-one approach, offering guidance with socialising and maintaining relationships. For those who just want someone to talk to or those who are looking for help coping with the many day-to-day challenges, these sites are especially useful.

Online dating is not comfortable for everyone. But it is definitely worth at least one try. You never know, with a bit of luck and many clicks of the mouse, a disabled dating service could change your life forever!