Isn’t it interesting that we don’t hear much talk about the role of sex and intimacy in our lives after a certain age? How about you? Do you discuss sex with anyone other than your partner? Do you discuss it with your partner? For the record, there is no shame in not having a partner. There are still great ways to experience the benefits of sex, with and without a partner.

Unfortunately, this important topic seems to have become more taboo and less talked about as we age? This mute on the subject matter leads to the general belief that seniors lose interest in sex. But this is far from the truth and quite the opposite. So, let’s talk about it here.

While it’s true that the frequency and flexibility to perform sexually will inevitably decline with age, research tells us that the majority of men and women between the ages of 50 and 80 are still happily and enthusiastically continuing sexually active lifestyles. Although individual libidos vary, the majority of us will lead healthy sex lives well into our senior years leading to multiple benefits for our health and well-being. Our libidos can be affected by menopause and our mental state. There are safe and proven ways to remedy these obstacles. If you are interested in learning about them, let me know.

Our need and desire for intimacy are timeless and this includes more than just sex. There is more to sex than penetration. There are many ways to be physically intimate that do not require penetration. A physical touch, hug, or handhold can offer many positive elements to your health and relationships. Studies show that you can enjoy sex and variations of sexual activity for as long as you want. We should look forward to a satisfying sex life long after middle age.

Sexual activity can actually get better as you age. With time, we typically have a higher level of self-confidence and self-assuredness. We’ve reached a point where our children are grown, our responsibilities may have declined, and life has mellowed with fewer distractions plus more free time. A positive attitude and open mind about our sex lives can lead to a renewed positive body image and sense of self which will go a long way in the bedroom.

After scouring several articles in search of documentation on the benefits of sex as we age, here is a compilation of some that may motivate you to improve or restart your sex life:

1. Sex burns fat and boosts your immune system.
2. Certain hormones like dopamine and oxytocin are released during sex and orgasm. These hormones make us feel fantastic and promote feelings of positivity.
3. Sexually active people have higher levels of naturally produced sex hormones – in other words, use it or lose it!
4. If you keep sexually active throughout your life, the physical changes that come with aging may be less pronounced and sexuality is often less affected.
5. Having sex takes up about as much energy as walking up two flights of stairs so sex is rarely a health risk. And if you’re lucky, it may take up a little more energy. On the other hand, if you have any health-related concerns, consult your healthcare professional.
6. Sex decreases blood pressure by the opening and relaxation of the blood vessels.
7. Sex enhances self-esteem. We all want to feel desirable. Having a partner who wants to be with you in such an intimate way is an esteem boost at any age. And, according to studies, feelings of self-worth are the basis of psychological health. Sexual behavior has been associated with fewer and less frequent symptoms of depression, both in women and men.
8. Sex also increases testosterone in both men and women. The frequency of sex in younger men appears to protect them from prostate cancer later in life and decreases their risk of heart attacks. For women, this testosterone prevents chronic cystitis, eventual prolapse, and incontinence.
9. Sex diminishes atrophy or shrinkage of the prostate and vagina and other muscles and ligaments in that special region.
10. Sex also releases human growth hormones which along with the discharge of some estrogen and testosterone are key factors in keeping your skin elastic, reducing wrinkles, firming muscles, shining up the skin, and making your hair softer.

Are you convinced yet?

Simply put, sex is an antidote to aging, which is a further reason to keep your mojo working! Remember, if you don’t use it, you lose it.

Love & Light,

Renee