What you can do to maintain a healthy and
enjoyable sex life as you grow older.
As you age, sex isn't the same as it was in
your 20s — but it can still be satisfying. Contrary to common myths, sex isn't
just for the young. Many seniors continue to enjoy their sexuality into their
80s and beyond.
A healthy sex life not only is fulfilling, but
also is good for other aspects of your life, including your physical health and
self-esteem.
Senior sex: What
changes as men get older?
As men age, testosterone levels decline and
changes in sexual function are common. These physiological changes can include:
A need for more stimulation to achieve and maintain erection and
orgasm
Shorter orgasms
Less forceful ejaculation and less semen ejaculated
Longer time needed to achieve another erection after ejaculation
You may feel some anxiety about these changes,
but remember they don't have to end your enjoyment of sex. Adapting to your
changing body can help you maintain a healthy and satisfying sex life. For
example, you may need to adjust your sexual routine to include more stimulation
to become aroused.
Senior sex and health
problems
Your health can have a big impact on your sex
life and sexual performance. Poor health or chronic health conditions, such as
heart disease or arthritis, make sex and intimacy more challenging.
Certain surgeries and many medications, such
as blood pressure medications, antihistamines, antidepressants and
acid-blocking drugs, can affect sexual function.
But don't give up. You and your partner can
experiment with ways to adapt to your limitations.
For example, if you're worried about having
sex after a heart attack, talk with your doctor about your concerns. If
arthritis pain is a problem, try different sexual positions or try using heat
to alleviate joint pain before or after sexual activity.
Stay positive and focus on ways of being
sexual and intimate that work for you and your partner.
Senior sex and emotional issues
At any age, emotional issues can affect your
sexuality. Many older couples report greater satisfaction with their sex life
because they have fewer distractions, more time and privacy, and no worries
about pregnancy.
On the other hand, some older adults feel
stressed by health problems, financial concerns and other lifestyle changes.
Depression can decrease your desire for and interest in sex. If you feel you
might be depressed, talk to your doctor or a counselor.
Senior sex tips
Sex may not be the same for you or your
partner as it was when you were younger. But sex and intimacy can continue to
be a rewarding part of your life. Here are some tips for maintaining a healthy
and enjoyable sex life:
·
Talk with your partner. Even if it's difficult to talk about sex, openly sharing
your needs, desires and concerns can help you both enjoy sex and intimacy more.
·
Visit your doctor. Your doctor can help you manage chronic conditions and
medications that affect your sex life. If you have trouble maintaining an
erection, ask your doctor about treatments.
·
See a sex therapist. A therapist may be able to help you and your partner with
specific concerns. Ask your doctor for a referral.
·
Expand your definition of sex. Intercourse is only one way to have a fulfilling sex life.
Touching, kissing and other intimate contact can be rewarding for you and your
partner.
As
you age, it's normal for you and your partner to have different sexual
abilities and needs. Be open to finding new ways to enjoy sexual contact and
intimacy.
·
Adapt your routine. Simple changes can improve your sex life. Change the time
of day you have sex to a time when you have the most energy. Try the morning —
when you're refreshed from a good night's sleep — rather than at the end of a
long day.
Because
it might take longer for you or your partner to become aroused, take more time
to set the stage for romance. Try a new sexual position or explore other ways
of connecting romantically and sexually.
·
Don't give up on romance. If you've lost your partner, it can be difficult to
imagine starting another relationship — but socializing is well worth the
effort for many single seniors. No one outgrows the need for emotional
closeness and intimacy.
If
you start an intimate relationship with a new partner, use a condom. Many older
adults are unaware that they are still at risk of sexually transmitted
infections, such as herpes and gonorrhea.
One final piece of advice for maintaining a
healthy sex life: Take care of yourself and stay as healthy as you can:
Eat a healthy diet.
Exercise regularly.
Don't drink too much alcohol.
Don't smoke.
See your doctor regularly, especially if you
have chronic health conditions or take prescription medications.
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