You’ve probably noticed that if the topic of sex and seniors comes up when your children or other young ones are around, that invariably you get a disgusted look appearing on their faces. Or you may get the response, “TMI” (Too Much Information).
The fact is that when it comes to sex, “It ain’t over till it’s over!”. Seniors are sexually active and can be so until well into their 90’s. In an interview, the well-known fitness guru, Jack Lalanne and his wife stated that they were still sexually active into their 90’s. Sex is a normal part of life and there is actually great benefit keeping it up into your later years.
Benefits
1. Sexual activity is pleasurable and is a
form of intimate connection with your partner. A healthy sex life usually indicates a degree of trust and bonding in a relationship.
2. Sexual activity is actually good for your cardiovascular system. Your heart rate goes up and there is a burning off of calories. It is far more beneficial than watching TV.
3. Regular sexual activity can enhance the immune system and there have been various studies showing that to be true.
4. Sexual activity and orgasm has a physiological effect on the brain. It stimulates the release of endorphins (the “feel good chemicals”). This creates a general feeling of wellbeing. Some, during sexual activity and orgasm experience almost a meditative state.
5. Sex tends to reduce stress and anxiety. During sexual intercourse one becomes very focused and while it may be a form of escapism, it’s not a bad way to go.
Some Physiology and Challenges with Aging
Sexual response has two phases. The first is DESIRE and the second is AROUSAL. Some of us continue to have much desire for a sexual relationship, well into our 90’s, even when there is not much opportunity to act on it, while many, both male and female, for various reasons, can lose the sense of passion and desire, even when there is a willing partner.
While there may be desire and passion, there may be difficulties with getting aroused. For women, this may be hormonal or due to anatomical changes, which make intercourse uncomfortable, which, of course, is distracting. For men, difficulty getting an erection can be very frustrating. For some men this is related to illnesses, medications or anxiety. While for the young, sexual performance may be taken for granted, as we age, there are certain problems that can impede sexual activity.
In men over the age of 65, there is a 60-70% chance of developing partial or total impotence. This is usually related to reduced blood flow. Circulation starts to suffer as we age and also conditions such as diabetes causes reduce blood flow leading to penile dysfunction. A reduction of the hormone Testosterone can also impair how a man functions. This can start even in the 40’s, but some men have no difficulty even into their 80’s and 90’s. Modern medicine is now very helpful.
One of the aspects that get ignored is that, what stimulates arousal in men and women is different. Women are very good at creating sexual fantasies in their minds. Men, on the other hand, are visual. They need to see the actual arousing body parts or see pictures of them, which is why men tend to view pornography more than women.
When we were younger there was a degree of spontaneity about sex. As we age, we need to plan for comfort and find positions that do not aggravate our joints, etc. Ultimately, the basis of good sexual relationships is closeness and connection.
In conclusion, sex is normal and desirable; it’s part of life. Society is gradually accepting that this applies to seniors as well. Enjoy!
Dr Adele Thomas and Dr Ely Lazar are semi retired health professionals who are on a new mission as the Passionate Retirees. They are dedicated to inspiring the over 50’s to live fulfilling and adventurous lives.
Their first book, “Travel Secrets For Seniors”, was released in 2013 and they have also written an e-book, “7 Retirement Secrets Revealed”.
Visit their website here.
Adele and Ely have had a combined 80 years of experience in the health field as both Medical Doctor and Chiropractor. So they have had first hand experience in dealing with the health issues of seniors and retirees.
Over the past 30 years they have travelled extensively to 38 countries in the Americas, Europe and Asia, including 43 U.S. states. This has given them insights and experience in counselling others regarding their travel needs. Their book, Travel Secrets For Seniors, is the result.
