Cartoon – Jonathan Pugh
http://www.pughcartoons.co.uk
Following several requests to deal with topics relevant to our age, I am running a few posts on subjects that many are reluctant to discuss. Today’s hot topic is sex.
When I sang Salt n Pepa’s song “Let’s Talk About Sex,” to Mr Grumpy, he mumbled something about having to go and check his shed. Over fifties tend to be more reluctant to talk about sex but really we should be aware of changes that might affect us as we age and be prepared fo rthem There’s no need to be shy about it. With that in mind, my thanks go to Robert Jones for this article:
*
The very notion of older people getting busy between the sheets used to cause gasps of shock and embarrassment. Fortunately, the idea that anyone over the age of 40 should shelve their passion and embrace a life of chastity, gardening and bingo has all but disappeared. We now know that no matter your age, it’s possible to enjoy a satisfying sex life. In fact, there’s a lot to be said for physical intimacy in later life. Research conducted by a team at the University of Chicago in 2010 suggested that a good sex life is positively associated with health in middle age and later life. As if that’s not enough, a recent Dutch study found that the more sexually active older people were, the better their memories and general brain function.
Of course, we shouldn’t go overboard when waxing lyrical about this issue. As the unrelenting hands of time march on, you’re bound to notice changes in your sexual experiences. After all, gravity tends to take its toll and joints can creak a little more than they used to. This is why it’s important to know what to expect in the bedroom as you age.
Erectile dysfunction
One issue that many people have experienced, either themselves or with their partners, is erectile dysfunction (ED) – although you wouldn’t necessarily know it. Despite the fact that around half of men between the ages of 40 and 70 have ED to some degree, embarrassment surrounding the issue means it’s seldom discussed. The medical problem has a range of causes. Often, it’s a symptom of health conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels, like diabetes and high blood pressure. It can also be triggered by psychological factors like stress and depression. The good news is, there are treatments on offer for ED, including Viagra, Cialis, Levitra, Sildenafil and Spedra. These medicines work by relaxing the arteries that supply blood to the penis. If you don’t want to visit your doctor in person to get prescriptions for these treatments, you can use online doctor services like onlinedoctor.lloydspharmacy.com instead.
As long as you find out what’s causing ED and get the right treatments, there’s no need to let it stop you and your partner having sex.
Aches and pains
Aches and pains can also cause problems in the bedroom. For example, osteoarthritis, which often develops in people over the age of 50, can make sexual contact uncomfortable. If you find physical intimacy is becoming difficult because of discomfort in your joints, you might benefit from taking warm baths to relax your body. It’s also worth testing out different positions and changing the times of day that you have sex. Depending on your particular circumstances, medicines or joint replacement operations might also help.
Whatever you do, don’t let pain put you off sex. You can find out more about your options by speaking to a qualified medical professional.
Reduced sex drive
Having a reduced sex drive in later life should come as no surprise. After all, your body’s no longer awash with potent sex hormones like it was when you were in your first flush of youth.
It’s common for older men to develop low testosterone, which can lessen their interest in sex. Meanwhile, as women approach the menopause, their levels of oestrogen fall. They can also suffer from reduced testosterone levels, especially after a hysterectomy. If you think the menopause may be impacting on your desire to have sex, why not pay a visit to your GP? If it’s suitable, you might be offered hormone replacement therapy. Available as patches, gels, tablets or implants, these treatments are designed to relieve the symptoms of the menopause and they can help to increase your libido.
It’s not all bad…
Of course, it’s not all bad news in the boudoir as you get older. There are lots of reasons why sex can be more, rather than less, enjoyable as you age. After all, if you find yourself freed from the pressures of work and raising a family, you might have more time to relax with your partner. Also, lots of older people feel less self-conscious about their bodies’ lumps and bumps. Let’s face it, by leaving the insecurities of youth firmly behind, it’s much easier to focus simply on having fun. Then of course there’s the fact that post menopause, there’s no need to worry about unwanted pregnancy.
With the right attitude, there’s no need to let your advancing years get in the way of a fulfilling sex life.
*
