I used to look for female friends of my own age plus slightly above/below by 5 yrs with similar interests.
One day I follow some advice on a now gone forum. Was put out a request for a wish but no specifics.
It worked.....I have a overseas USA male friend of many years coming up to 14 yrs... we email.
Younger than me, totally different lifestyle, before Corona during his travels I get sort of taken along view the hotel, the menu etc.
I used to travel before due to health reasons had to stop. Had to give up going to the shops so I shop online.Last thing I gave up was grocery shopping. Homebound.
Via a coloring books question online, met a new friend female few years older than my college student daughter.
Besides messages about coloring we exchanged some more things and gradually a bit of friendship develops.
The female/male friendship is sort of seen as odd...but it can work...as long as there is a serious friendship intention.
Things take time to develop.......so invest the time in it.