More and More Seniors Are Having Unprotected Sex and Getting STDs

There is good news and bad news for seniors over 55 who are finding themselves single again. Whether due to the death of a spouse or a midlife divorce, both men and women are experiencing the loss of long term relationships, but life goes on.

No matter how old they might be, people of all ages need to be touched and feel love. Suddenly single seniors are finding themselves back on the dating scene and some haven't been single for decades.

Some of the old "hooking up methods" are still the same. There are special bars and parties for the older crowd. Seniors can relax, meet new friends, chat, have a few drinks and maybe exchange phone numbers. There may even be an occasional one-night stand.

For those seniors not into the bar scene, there are online social groups and numerous senior dating sites. There are church groups and well meaning relatives and friends, so no senior needs to be alone.

Seniors are also living longer than ever. Many are still active and keep themselves in shape. Retirement communities offer many a permanent vacation lifestyle, where those over 55 can relax, travel and be free from responsibilities. They can pursue hobbies, meet new friends and maybe have new romantic relationships.

Thanks to new medications and lifestyle changes seniors are embracing their older years with good health and gusto. Women still are fashionable and attractive. Many men have rediscovered sexual activity thanks to the many new erectile dysfunction remedies now available.

Seniors today are remaining sexually active well into their 80's and even 90's.Times have changed since the 50's, 60's and 70's, and many seniors have some learning to do.

Since contraception is no longer an issue, seniors are not using condoms. Unprotected sex is the norm and gets them into trouble. They are the fastest growing group being diagnosed with STDs.

Jane Fowler found herself back on the dating scene after being married 23 years. Then after dating a few years, she found out she had HIV. "I was not promiscuous. These were acquaintances of mine who were widowers or divorced." Jane, a mother and grandmother was 58 at the time.

According to the Journal of Sexually Transmitted Infections, the incidence of STDs in the over 50 age group has doubled in the last decade. Genital Warts, Herpes, Chlamydia, HPV, Gonorrhea and Syphilis rates have risen sharply.

Doctors urge seniors and Boomers to be tested and to be honest with their partners. Lack of sexual education and embarrassment seem to be the reasons seniors are getting sick. Senior communities and medical centers are launching new public education programs on safe sex for seniors.

Even with a positive diagnosis, seniors with STDs can be treated and cured and resume sexual activity. Education and honesty are the key.

Seniors must realize any unprotected sex is risky sex. Where there's sex, there's STDs. According to the Center for Disease Control, 250,000 people are infected with HIV and don't even know it. Without testing there is no way to know who the carriers may be.

Sources:

www.wftv.com/news

Naples Daily News

www//.lifewhile.com/health/