I know sex is a controversial topic, but here at Honey Good, we talk about everything after the age of 50. So let’s talk aging, sex, and sexuality…
Many people enter old age with many prejudices in their heads. We think that dementia and frequent falls will be our only destination, and we have to forget all about going out, dancing, playing tennis, and hanging out with buddies. However, one of the biggest myths we carry is that our sex life has to disappear at a certain age. While our bodies do slow down with age and we have to be more careful with physical activities no matter what they are, science states that people are having sex well into their 70s and beyond. So, what kind of other aging and sexuality myths need to be debunked?
Erectile Dysfunction
A man’s erection might not be what it used to be when he was 20, but it can still do the deed. In research conducted among men over 70, almost ¾ of all subjects said that they had very few or no erectile issues. Luckily for those with erectile dysfunction issues, many things can be done. There are few prescription drugs that can make the penis harder and prolong the sexual act. Other options are also available such as implants, shots, and pumps that can do the trick. So, don’t hesitate to talk to a professional if you need help—your problem can be fixed easily.
Vaginal Dryness
Menopause can lead to vaginal dryness in women, but that’s nothing a quality lubricant can’t handle (silicone-based lube is good for this issue since it lasts longer and can be used with condoms, but not silicone toys). There are also estrogen-based creams prescribed by the doctor.
It’s important to keep in mind that while the walls of the vagina may thin, the clitoris usually stays the same. This organ doesn’t degrade, but you might need to engage in a little more foreplay to get the blood moving around since this process slows down as we age.
Rusty Engines
If you have stopped having sex, you might come across some physical and psychological blockages that could prevent the engines from starting up. But, these issues can be fixed. The best way to keep your body and mind interested in sex is to stay fit, keep your heart active, your muscles strong and your mind sharp.
Single seniors might need to find a new partner to start those sex engines, and individuals who are in long-term relationships might want to focus more on love in new and creative ways. Luckily, if you browse a well-equipped adult shop in search of something fun, you will definitely end up with a few new toys and accessories. Toys are perfect for experimentation and reigniting that old spark that will encourage you to have frisky and fun sex again.
Sex is Only Natural for Young People
Many people think that having sex in your senior years is undignified and inappropriate. Sex is obviously not reserved for young people only, otherwise, our sexual feelings would go away completely as we age. Actually, we are made to live longer and better when we are sexually active. This type of contact causes better health, better relationships, and easier stress management. So, NOT having sex once you cross a certain age is what’s unnatural.
Aging Bodies Aren’t Sexy
Sometimes, our brain is our worst enemy. Oftentimes, we start doubting our sex appeal just because we gained weight or started sagging in places that didn’t sag in the past. However, sexual allure is not all about aesthetics. Arousal can be awakened by touching, kissing, and sweet words. When you fall in love with someone, you fall in love with their mind, kindness, and romantic gestures. So, you really don’t need a perfect body to be attractive—the negative mindset will only ruin your sexual satisfaction, not your partner’s.
Sex Gives You a Heart Attack
Rarely does sex trigger heart attacks or any other form of sudden death. According to medical experts, the risk of a heart attack for active 50-year-old men is 1 in a million per hour. If you add sexual activity to that mix, you can boost this probability by 3 and end up with 3 in one million per hour—that’s still a tiny number. If you’re a heart attack survivor getting back into shape, you have a 30 in one million per hour chance to get a heart attack caused by sex. So, while sex can trigger this medical emergency, it doesn’t happen very often.
You Don’t Have to Worry About STD’s
Actually, infection rates of STDs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis are sky-rocketing among the older population. The ability to maintain sexual function with pharmaceuticals and access to community living are just some factors that caused a rise in STDs in older adults, so make sure to use a condom!
Don’t give up one of life’s greatest pleasures just because you have some of these myths stuck in your head. Now that they are out of the way, you can grab your partner and get frisky!
How do you feel about sex and sexuality as you age? Let’s discuss this in the comments at the bottom of this page. We want to hear from you!
About the author: Diana Smith is a full-time mom of two beautiful girls. She is interested in topics related to health and alternative medicine. In her free time, she enjoys exercising and preparing healthy meals for her family.
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Thanks for keeping this conversation alive. The power of touch should never go out of fashion.
I doubt it will, Merry!!! Warmly, Honey