Intimacy is a basic human need and has no age limit. This means that you can enjoy healthy sex throughout your lifetime at every stage of life. Even as you age, intimacy and sexual health remain important and normal. As a senior, it's normal to have concerns or questions about what healthy intimacy looks like as you age. In this article, we'll break down what you need to know and answer common questions about health intimacy in older adults.
The Benefits of Healthy Sex For Older Adults
Talking about sex doesn't need to be uncomfortable. Engaging in healthy sex offers many benefits for older adults. For example, sex improves mental and physical health by releasing endorphins in the brain that reduce anxiety and serve as healthy aerobic exercise.
Additionally, sex can strengthen relationships by helping to support closeness and deepen a bond between partners. Some people even believe that sex can help you live longer by lowering stress and adding quality years to your life. With age, some experience a greater sexual connection and more satisfying sexual experiences from increased maturity, better communication skills, and lower inhibitions.
Common Sexual Concerns for Seniors
Our bodies naturally change with age, which can raise concerns for both men and women. For men, erection trouble is a common concern, while women may experience vaginal dryness or a low desire for sex. Many seniors also struggle with the inability to have an orgasm.
These issues can feel embarrassing at first, but it's important to remember that you're not alone. These issues affect a large percentage of older adults. While this can be challenging, speaking to your primary care doctor is a great place to start. Your primary care doctor can help you understand your sexual health symptoms and provide helpful tips and treatments to help you enjoy a healthy sex life.
Safe, Healthy Sex for Older Adults
Safe and healthy sex is important throughout every stage of adulthood. However, rising rates of STDs among older adults make it even more important to remember the fundamentals of safe sex.
Healthy sex is safe sex, which includes knowing you and your partner's sexual health status and protecting yourself by getting tested for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and using condoms during all sex. During regular visits with your primary care provider, discuss STD testing and any symptoms you may be experiencing.
Discussing Intimacy and Sexual Health With Your Physician
Aging can bring physical and emotional changes that can affect healthy sex and intimacy. While it's natural to want to shy away from discussing sexual health with your doctor, remember that they are here to help.
Everyone should be able to engage in safe, healthy sex even as they age. With the right support and open conversations with your primary care provider, you can continue to enjoy healthy intimacy as you age.
As you speak with your doctor, they will keep your matters confidential and create a safe, judgment-free zone. Your doctor can help you and your partner get tested before you are sexually active and discuss how sex may or may not affect your current health issues.
Find a Location Near You
Ready to start creating an open conversation with your doctor about your sexual health and intimacy for a healthy sex life? Find a location near you. Our care team is ready to help you maintain healthy intimacy in older adulthood.
