Staying healthy and feeling your best is important at any age and that does not change just because you are aging. As we enter our senior years, we experience an increasing number of major life changes; how we handle and grow from these changes is the key to staying healthy.
Sex is an important part of emotional and physical health. In a relationship, sexual activity allows you to establish intimacy and express your feelings for your partner. It also benefits your physical health by reducing stress and making you feel good about yourself.
Senior sex isn’t the same as it was in your 20’s — but it can still be satisfying. Contrary to common myths about sexuality and older adults, sexual interest is not just for the young. Many seniors continue to enjoy their sexuality into their 80’s and beyond. You can have a healthy, enjoyable sex life at any age.
A healthy sex life is not only fulfilling, but it’s also good for other aspects of your life, including your physical health and self-esteem. Here are some tips for maintaining a healthy and enjoyable sex life as you age:
• Talk with your partner. It may be difficult to talk about sex if you haven’t in the past, but openly talking with your partner about your needs, desires and concerns can help you both enjoy sex and intimacy more.
• Visit your doctor. Your doctor can help you manage chronic conditions and medications that affect your sex life. If you have trouble maintaining an erection or reaching orgasm, ask your doctor about medications or other treatments for these problems.
• Expand your definition of sex. Intercourse is only one way to have fulfilling sex. Touching, kissing and other intimate sexual contact can be just as rewarding for both you and your partner. Realize that as you age, it’s normal for you and your partner to have different sexual abilities and needs. Be open to finding new ways to enjoy sexual contact and intimacy.
• Adapt your routine. Simple changes can improve your sex life. Change the time of day when you have sex to a time when you have the most energy, such as in the morning. Try a new sexual position or explore other new ways of connecting romantically and sexually.
• Don’t give up on romance. If you’ve lost your partner, it can be difficult to imagine starting another relationship, but socializing is well worth the effort for many single seniors. No one outgrows the need for emotional closeness and intimacy. If you start an intimate relationship with a new partner, be sure to practice safe sex. Many older adults are unaware that they are still at risk of sexually transmitted diseases.
And a final piece of advice for maintaining a healthy sex life: Take good care of yourself. Eat healthy, stay active, don’t drink too much alcohol, and don’t smoke or use illegal drugs. Be sure to see your doctor regularly, especially if you have any chronic health conditions or take prescription medications. Remember, just because we are getting older does not mean we can’t still have fun!
Christina Campbell is a General Therapist with a specialization in sexual and intimacy issues