Ageing brings on menopause,
disease, and disability, which changes the
way our bodies respond to physical stimulation.
As hormonal levels drop, men and women experience
a difference in their bodily functions,
and a reduced sexual desire.
Still, research shows that more and more senior citizens, even a few well into their
90s, are sexually active today. And it’s
not a result of recent medical or psychological
breakthroughs either. Most senior couples
find the time and privacy that they didn’t
have when they were younger because of family,
financial and professional obligations.
Plus, sex is no longer taboo and many seniors
find the courage to shed their inhibitions
and explore their sexuality.
Understand that it is natural for your
body to slow down. Don’t be ashamed
or embarrassed if it takes longer to get
aroused or if you find it difficult to achieve
orgasm. Accepting the limitations of an
aging body will help you break down mental
barriers that hinder freedom of sexual expression.
Talk to your partner about what you feel
capable of and what you can’t handle
anymore. Communication is the key to any
good relationship and is one of the major
contributors to a healthy sex life. Discuss
anything new that you would like to try
out – a new position, oils and massages,
role-play, toys.
As we age, sexual expression takes on new
meaning. Penetration and orgasm should never
be the focus of a sexual activity. This
eliminates performance anxiety and gives
you an insight into new levels of sexual
expression and satisfaction. Take your time
with sex. Indulge in longer periods of foreplay.
Set the mood – have a candlelit dinner,
talk to your partner about your day, sit
close to each other, hold hands, kiss, caress,
touch and fondle.
Talk to your doctor about any problems
that you might have. Certain medications
have been known to counter sexual dysfunction
in ageing adults. Do not self-medicate or
go by the adverts that plague the internet
and the media.
Stay healthy, approach sex with a positive
attitude, educate yourself about the different
aspects of ageing sexually and don’t
be afraid to try out new things.
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