A few years ago I met my current GF using Mingle2.
She never even opens the forum community side of the site.
She is local (lives 5 miles from me).
She is within my age group (6 years younger).
We exchanged a few messages (6-8) thru Mingle2's message center, exchanged phone numbers and set up a meet (which she didn't show for). Another few more phone calls and another meet (which she did show for) and we have been GF&BF ever since and still going strong.

She knows I still participate in the forums but since we are both adults, its non-threatening.

To do this I had to rethink my soul-seeking methods:
1. I needed to realize a real woman is not perfect at my age range. They don't look like models, they probably have children and grandchildren and they are not likely to play games to scam you.
2. I needed to stick with what I know. I know my town. I needed someone local who actually lives in or close to my town. Dating/relationships require personal contact to flourish.
3. I needed to trust her. I chose discussions which would have tripped up the average scammer.
4. I needed to lighten up a bit and walk in reality. My flexibility allowed me to give her a benefit of a doubt and it worked out in my favor.
5. I needed to put away my expectations and actually see her as she is, not as I want her to be.

If yer waiting till you find a 'perfect' match, you will probably die alone.
Use the wisdom you have gained so you don't make the same mistakes over and over.
Be patient, wise and flexible.
Try to see the person as they are.