Talk About Aging #3, Senior Sexuality?

There are some misconceptions about growing older and sexual activity that should be cleared up. First, the idea that old people are not interested in sex. This idea is totally false many older people participate and enjoy sexual activity on a regular basis. Once again sexual activities depend on medical history. Diseases like diabetes and heart disease, and hypertension can affect the ability to perform sexually. Medications can also have a negative affect on sexual activity resulting in inability to perform or lack of interest. So the facts are, people don’t necessarily lose interest in sex as they age but chronic illnesses and medications can stifle sexual interest.

Another misconception is that women lose interest in sex after menopause. The fact is many women say their sex drive increased after menopause because there is no longer a concern with pregnancy and they can enjoy a relaxed, unhurried atmosphere of tenderness and sensuality with their partners. This along with the fact that middle aged and older men take a bit longer to become aroused and reach orgasm is a plus because the atmosphere provides a greater opportunity for the satisfaction to be mutual.

According to an AARP study conducted in 1999 there is still a difference in the way men and women think about sexual activity. Of the older women surveyed only 5 percent said they think about sex daily or several times daily. In contrast, 30 percent of the middle aged and old age males say they think about sex daily or several times a day. Both males and females agreed, even though sexual activity is gratifying and pleasurable sex becomes less important as we age.

Sex is one of life’s pleasures that can last well into old age promoting togetherness and bonding between people in a relaxed unhurried atmosphere. The positive effects can be seen both mentally and physically, overcoming the loneliness and frustration experienced by some seniors.

So sexual activity can and does, in many cases, continue into middle and old age with the introduction of drugs to treat erectile dysfunction such as Viagra for men, and even Viagra for women. Senior sexuality may not be as overt as the young, but many seniors still report a more pleasurable and satisfying experience than ever before.

AARP (1999, August). AARP/Modern Maturity Sexuality Study. Washington D.C.

Terry Truhlar has a MS in Gerontology from the University of Massachusetts, Boston. Email-ttruhlar@yahoo.com