With more and more medical advances, the aging population around the world continues to grow. Beyond viewing for Cancercardiovascular problems and hormonal imbalances, sexual health and the needs of the elderly should be considered a key aspect of health care.
The current social stigma surrounding their sexual activity can make it difficult for older adults to broach the subject with friends, partners, and health care providers. Some older adults may find it hard to believe that they are still capable of having sex after a certain age.
However, this is far from the truth. Sexual activity and intimate relationships can actually increase well-being and reduce mortality rates in the aging population. It’s time to adjust the lens and focus on the important aspects of maintaining an active sex life into your later years.
Sex is a form of physical activity
Frequent sexual activity (1-2 times a month) can help improve circulation, heart rate variability, endurance, muscle flexibility and bone density. Frequent sexual activity can also help reduce the risk of dangerous cardiovascular events (such as heart attacks), certain cancers and mental health issues known to affect life expectancy (depressionstress etc.).
Staying active is a common way medical professionals encourage seniors to stay happy and healthy. Exercise and physical activity can increase endorphins (the happy hormone), promote good blood circulation and maintain muscle strength.
Participating in sexual activity is just one of many ways seniors can support their physical health well into retirement.
Endorphins increase the overall enjoyment of life
One of the aspects of well-being is the overall enjoyment of life. His release endorphins And the increase in serotonin that occurs during orgasm, or any form of physical activity, can play a role in improving mood and, consequently, enjoyment of life.
In addition to physical activity and the feeling of euphoria after orgasm, emotional closeness and non-sexual intimacy such as holding hands, kissing and quality time play an important role in mood regulation. These actions, even if it’s just a long walk on the beach or a pillow talk after sex, can help reduce stress and improve depression.
Anxiety and depression can harm one’s longevity, so it is important to take care of oneself in body and mind. Whether it’s from a lot of sexual activity or a lot of time spent together watching reruns of Jeopardy!, activity shouldn’t feel like a burden.
Addressing sexual dysfunction and psychological issues in older adults can help
Due to social stigma, many older people may experience undiagnosed sexual dysfunction (SD). This may be due to erectile dysfunction (ED), vaginal atrophy or dryness; related to genitourinary menopausal syndrome (GSM)or from something more psychological in nature.
It’s important to talk to a sexual health professional if sex becomes painful, if getting and maintaining an erection becomes difficult, or if sex just isn’t appealing anymore. Despite popular culture that everyone else may believe, sex is important regardless of age. Sexual health professionals have the expertise to provide any medication or counseling needed to promote a thriving sexuality for all.
Basic Takeaways
- Sexual activity in older adults is often stigmatized and ignored, leading to a lack of education and medical intervention that could extend life expectancy.
- Sexual activity is physical activity and can help improve your cardiovascular system, muscle health and bone health.
- Orgasm and other aspects of intimacy (emotional closeness) are beneficial for mental health in older adults. Consider sex a preventative medicine against depression and a stress reliever.
- If an older adult is struggling with sexual dysfunction related to the body or mind, it may be beneficial to talk to a sexual health professional – they’re not there to judge.
Resources
BoyacıoGlu, NE, Oflaz, F., Karaahmet, AY, HodaeIBK, Afsmallin, Y., & Tasmallabat, SE (2023). Sexuality, quality of life and psychological well-being in the elderly: A correlational study. European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology: X, 17100177.
Smith, L., Yang, L., Veronese, N., Soysal, P., Stubbs, B., & Jackson, SE (2019). Sexual activity is associated with greater enjoyment of life in older adults. Sexual Medicine, 7(1), 11–18.
Zhang, F., Yang, Z., Li, X., & Wang, A. (2023). Factors influencing the quality of sex life in the elderly: A scoping review. International Journal of Nursing Sciences, 10(2), 167–173.
