Why talk about sex and seniors?

While discussing the topic openly may be uncomfortable for some, the answer is clear. Sex and sexuality are an important part of life, and as America’s 78 million baby boomers begin to enter their senior years, the perception that sex is just for the young is proving to be outdated. (Remember, this is the same generation that came of age in a time when sexual morals were changing radically.) People can have great sex lives no matter their age, with some experts going so far as to say that the older you are, the better sex can be because of increased experience and more comfort with yourself.

American’s notions about sex and, specifically, sex later in life are rooted in many places – societal, cultural, religion and one’s own personal history. But the reality is that sex at any age is an individual decision, and today there are many things seniors can do to remain sexually active if they so choose.

Sexual pleasure begins with the understanding that sexuality embodies much more than intercourse. It includes affection, love, warmth, passion, sharing, bonding and intimacy – all things most seniors desire and need. In fact, when seniors are asked to describe their partners, both men and women frequently single out qualities that go beyond sex, responding that their regular sexual partner “loves me deeply” and “is my best friend.”

As we age, physical and emotional needs change, and it is important that both partners be aware of these changes and make it a priority to understand just what is going on. Post menopause, it is common for it to take longer for women to become sexually excited. Their skin may feel more sensitive and irritable, they may have less natural lubrication, and orgasms may be shorter or even uncomfortable. For men, sexual response begins to slow after the