Although the frequency of sexual activity tends to decrease with age, sexual activity in older adults is still prevalent, with approximately 40% of men and women aged 65-80 engaging in it. In fact, a survey revealed that sexual satisfaction among older women is even higher than that of middle-aged women.
1. Sexual Needs in the Elderly
Sexual activity is also considered an important measure to evaluate the quality of life for most elderly people. However, age-related issues can affect sexual function, such as erectile dysfunction in men and vaginal dryness, urinary incontinence, and uterine prolapse in women. While these conditions are often treatable, most older adults do not discuss their concerns with their doctors to seek appropriate treatment.
Recent studies and surveys on the frequency of sexual activity in the elderly have surprised many people. Specifically:
• 40% of men and women aged 65-80 still engage in sexual activity, with the rate being lower in older women than in men.
• This rate increases to 54% for couples who still have a romantic and passionate relationship.
• 31% of men aged 80-90 engage in masturbation and sexual activity, and nearly 60% of men aged 70-80 are still sexually active.
• Only 14% of women aged 80-90 and 34% of women aged 70-80 regularly masturbate or engage in sexual activity.
• More than half of elderly men declare that they are still very interested in sex.
• Sexual activity has been shown to bring better emotions for both genders, with many women over 70 admitting to being more satisfied with their current sex life and physical satisfaction compared to when they were 40.
• Although still interested, very few elderly people discuss their sex life with their doctors.
2. Issues Affecting Sexuality in the Elderly
As people age, many changes can affect the frequency of sexual activity and the level of satisfaction with their sex life. These changes include:
Aging of the Genital Organs:
The natural aging process can lead to changes in the genital organs, while emotional needs remain an essential part of life. As women age, the vagina may shorten and narrow, the vaginal walls become thinner and stiffer, and lubrication decreases. For men, impotence, also known as erectile dysfunction, becomes more common.
Health Issues:
Chronic diseases common in the elderly can also cause problems with sexual activity. Some conditions include chronic pain and arthritis, cancer (especially breast and prostate cancer), diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, obesity, urinary incontinence (women may fear urinating during orgasm), and neurological disorders.
Medication overuse:
Antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and many other pharmaceuticals can lead to erectile dysfunction in men or the inability to achieve orgasm in women.
Lack of a Partner:
One important factor when considering statistics on sexuality in older women is that they have fewer partners than men. Even for women who have partners, men of the same age or older are often unable to maintain stable sexual activity. Therefore, in addition to decreased libido and health issues, the lower frequency of sexual activity in older women is also due to a lack of opportunities.
3. Maintaining Sexual Intimacy in Older Adults
Sexual intercourse offers numerous physical and mental benefits as people age. A healthy sex life enhances affection and intimacy in older couples. Research indicates that regular sexual activity can reduce tension in marital relationships. Some ways to maintain or rekindle sexual activity in older adults include:
Reframe your perspective on sex:
To maintain a fulfilling sex life in old age, it is crucial to reconsider the meaning of intimacy between partners. Some body parts and preferences may have changed. Sex in older age becomes much deeper, so couples should share their thoughts and desires.
Accept the present:
For older adults, sexual life is often nurtured and developed over decades. Many people tend to reminisce and remember wonderful times. However, it is important to let go of youth and accept that intimacy now will be very different. If older adults focus only on what was, they will be disappointed instead of improving their needs and arousing their partner's desire.
Engage in sex even without desire:
Many sex therapists advise older couples to "just do it" instead of waiting for desire. Even without mood, sexual intercourse can be considered a form of physical "exercise" and help improve desire. Sex in older women increases lubrication time and vaginal elasticity. Orgasm releases oxytocin in both men and women, a hormone that not only supports sleep but also helps older adults feel calmer and more relaxed.
Have intimate conversations with your partner:
If a partner seems uninterested in sex, the other should raise the issue, although this is not easy. Talking about sex can be challenging at any age, but when couples have been together for many years, they can use the word "suppose" to share their thoughts. Sometimes the wife thinks the husband has lost interest or she is no longer attractive, while in reality, he is worried that his "performance" is not good enough to please her.
Maintain romantic feelings:
Long-term intimacy with a partner is a factor that can support sexual activity in older adults. Maintaining affection and romance is crucial even in old age. Besides, expressing affection does not necessarily involve physical stimulation but can be done in non-sexual ways. Understand that candles, good wine, and music are not exclusive to young people.
In summary, understanding the reality of sex in older adults and the factors affecting their sexual life at this stage, as well as measures to maintain or even restart intimacy after a period of "coldness," can help older adults continue to enjoy this pleasure of life.
Reference source: verywellhealth.com
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