 |
Sex and the Elderly |
 |
Sexuality in Later Life
Normal aging brings physical changes in both men and women. These changes sometimes affect one's ability to have and enjoy sex with another person. Aging, illness, disability or medications can affect your ability to have a satisfying sex life.
Physical Changes in the Male
There are several normal changes that occur as a male becomes older like decreased production of testosterone, decreased size and firmness of the testicles, reduced sperm production, increase in the size of the prostate (prostatitis), the erection may be delayed, less firm erection and shorter orgasm (orgasm phase).
If a man remains sexually active in his youth and middle years, he can continue to be active in his later life. However, if a man stops having sex in his 50's and 60's, the chance of becoming impotent is greater. If he and his partner are able to use special techniques that rely heavily on genital stimulation, then he will be able to stay sexually active well into his advance years.
Physical Changes in the Female
The physical changes in women are like Menopause, less production of estrogen, , vagina becomes thinner and changes color, diminished expansive ability of the vagina during sexual arousal, the length and width of vagina is decreased and a reduction in lubrication which can result in painful intercourse (dyspareunia).
If a woman decides not to have sexual intercourse during her 50's and 60's, it could be due to psychological or social factors rather than physical changes.
How to adapt to change?
There are several things you can do on your own to keep an active sexual life. Remember that sex does not have to include intercourse.
- Try different positions and new times, like having sex in the morning when you both may have more energy.
- Don't hurry-you or your partner may need to spend more time touching to become fully aroused.
- Mutual masturbation is a sexual activity that some older people may find satisfying.
- If you do seem to have a problem that affects your sex life, talk to your doctor. He or she can suggest a treatment depending on the type of problem and its cause.
- If impotence is the problem, it can often be managed and perhaps even reversed. Viagra is the most popular pill for treating Erectile Dysfunction.
There is a lot you can do to continue an active sex life. Follow a healthy lifestyle-exercise, eat good food, drink plenty of fluids like water or juices, don't smoke, and avoid alcohol. Try to reduce the stress in your life. See your doctor regularly. And keep a positive outlook on life.
Want tips on how to talk to your partner?
The health information contained herein is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace discussions with a healthcare provider. Decisions regarding patient care must be made with a healthcare provider, considering the unique characteristics of the patient.
