Sexual Health in the Golden Years

Getting older does not mean one's sex life is finished. A recent study by the University of Chicago has shown that senior citizens remain sexually active well into their 80s, health permitting. A healthy sex life between consenting adults is a part of life people can enjoy well into their "Golden Years."

A high percentage of men and women remain sexually active well into old age, according to a survey conducted by The University of Chicago National Social Life, Health and Aging Project. The data in the survey was published in the New England Journal of Medicine in the August 23,2007 issue.

People may presume that sexuality decreases as we age, but that is not the case, according to the scientific survey. The survey was the first comprehensive national survey of older adults in the United States, according to an article in the University of Chicago Medical Center Newsletter. Information has been difficult to gather, due to social taboos and embarrassment in talking about sex.

The survey found that most adults, between the ages of 57 and 85, were of the opinion that sex was an important part of life. Moreover, the researchers found that the level of sexual activity, for those who are sexually active, declines only slightly for adults from the ages of 50 to 70.

Sexually active adults participate in sexual activity, including vaginal intercourse, oral sex and masturbation well into their 70's and 80's. This is good news for the aging Baby Boomers. The older members of the Baby Boom generation are starting to turn 60. People may find that good health habits of a lifetime will reap rewards later in life, as the enjoyment of sex can be related to overall good health.

Sex and Health

Health is an important factor for sexually active adults. Good health enhances the ability to enjoy sex, just as good health enhances the enjoyment of every activity in life. Certain medical conditions can make sex difficult, uncomfortable or even painful. Adults with conditions that make sex difficult should not be embarrassed to discuss these conditions with their physician. The doctor may have a solution for the physical problem, that can help return normal sexual function.

Doctors will often ask if sex life is normal during a physical exam. Many people do not want to admit that they are not functioning normally and will be untruthful with their doctor. The patient does a disservice to themselves and the their partner when they tell the doctor that their sex life is fine, when it is not. Confide in the doctor if there is a problem. Inability to perform sexually may be a symptom of another illness. The doctor has a very good reason for asking the question. Patients do themselves a disservice if they are dishonest.

Medical Conditions May Interfere With Enjoyment of Sex

There are several medical conditions that interfere with healthy sex life. Common conditions that can interfere with the enjoyment of sex include lack of desire, vaginal dryness for women and erectile dysfunction in men. These bothersome problems can interfere with the enjoyment of sex for men and women. Adults that participate in sexual activity despite discomfort may find that the overall relationship can be damaged. If a partner engages in sexual activity, even though it is uncomfortable, not enjoyable or painful is bound to start feeling resentful. This can affect aspects of the relationship outside the bedroom.

Lack of desire for women

43% of women experience lack of desire, according to the University of Chicago. Sexual desire fluctuates naturally over the years. If bothered by low sex drive, there are lifestyle changes and sex technique that may help put women in the mood. Hypoactive sexual desire is persistent, or recurrent, lack of interest that causes personal distress. If you are not as interested in sex as you would like to be, talk to your doctor.

Vaginal dryness for women.

39% of women experience the discomfort of vaginal dryness, according the University of Chicago. Vaginal dryness can occur at any age, but is most common during and after menopause. Hormonal changes affect the thin layer of moisture that coats vaginal walls. Over the counter lubricants, such as KY Jelly may help. The doctor may prescribe a vaginal estrogen cream or tablet.

Erectile dysfunction for men

37% of men experience a problem with erectile dysfunction, which is the inability to maintain a firm erection long enough to have sexual intercourse. More common in older men, this problem may occur at any age. Erectile dysfunction, also called impotence, was once considered a natural function of aging, but opinions are changing. Impotence can be a symptom of a serious medical condition, such as heart disease, so it is important to discuss erection problems with a doctor.

Premature ejaculation for men

Premature ejaculation is when a man ejaculates sooner during sexual intercourse than he, or his partner, would like. Occasional incidents are probably not a cause for concern. Premature ejaculation is a common sexual disorder. Treatments may include medication, psychological counseling and training in sexual techniques to delay ejaculation to improve sex.

Talk to Your Doctor

Talk to your doctor honestly about any questions or problems with your sex life. The doctor may be able to help resolve issues that interfere with healthy enjoyment of sex.

Advancing age into the ranks of the senior citizen does not mean that the sex life has to suffer. Sex can be a pleasurable and beautiful part of life between consenting adults well into their "Golden Years."

Information in this article is not intended as medical advice. If you have questions about medical conditions and treatments, please consult a doctor.

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