Intimacy and the Senior
It’s something we don’t talk much about, but a surprising study published last summer in the New England Journal of Medicine revealed that a large number of older adults are still interested in sexuality. In fact 53 percent of those age 65-74 and 26 percent of those age 75-85 said they were sexually active in the last 12 months.
Older women were less likely to report sexual activity than older men and less likely to be in intimate relationships, due in part to women’s status as widows leaving them without partners Sexual desire and activity continue for many people throughout life. With advancing age, some changes occur that may impact sexual relationships, but many of these can be remedied. Researchers hope that this landmark study will serve as a catalyst to open discussions between health care providers and their patients on this important topic.
Female Sexuality
As for many things in life, if you are actively involved in sex when you are young, chances are that interest may continue in your later years. For women, loss of a partner obviously impairs their sexual activity. Since women do live longer than men, many of them find themselves alone late in life. For those who have partners, the most often stated reason for lack of sexual activity is the health of one or the other, more often the man.
Sexual relationships remain possible for most women throughout life, barring any serious health issues. Some normal changes with age include vaginal dryness and less intense responses. One of the most common complaints with women is lack of interest. Some women decide that their sexual life is not of great importance and they are not concerned about this. If you are concerned about this or any other sexual issue, speak with your health care provider.
Male Sexuality
According to the above mentioned study, more men than women are sexually active later in life. This may be because more men have partners. In the aging male decreased sexual activity is associated with:
• Poor health
• Social issues
• Partner availability
• Decreased libido
• Erectile dysfunction (ED)
While ED is not a normal part of aging it does become more common with age. Many things can contribute to ED including relationship difficulties, medications (particularly for high blood pressure or diabetes), certain surgical procedures, hormonal imbalances or psychological issues. Some treatments include surgical procedures and injections. There has been a lot of publicity about the class of drugs known as selective vasodilators (Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra). These medications can be helpful in some cases. If you have any concerns in the area of sexual health, do not hesitate to talk with your health care provider.
Safe Sex Practices
Many seniors have ignored the public health warnings related to safe sex, thinking that it does not apply to them. However, sexually transmitted diseases are growing among the over 55 age group. While pregnancy is not a concern, things like AIDS, genital herpes and even gonorrhea are possibilities. Some partners may not be forthcoming about previous sexual contacts. The advice for most is to use condoms as a protective measure until a conversation about past sexual partners and a medical check up have been accomplished.
The need for intimate physical and emotional connection is ageless. In fact, sharing your life in a fulfilling intimate relationship, which may include a healthy sexual relationship, can have positive effects on virtually every aspect of your life, from physical health to self-esteem. But for many, the best aspect of a close relationship is having the opportunity for affection and companionship.
Focus on sharing common interests and friendship and let the rest take care of itself is the advice of some seniors. Even those without partners have a desire for close emotional bonds. Developing intimate relationships with friends by sharing the deeper issues of life can meet the need for many.
Hugs and caring touch are important for everyone so practice them as often as you feel comfortable. Massage is a great way to enjoy the benefits of physical touch. At any age, the need for intimacy and closeness is part of the human experience. Enjoy it!
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