Sexual Health and Aging

There is a common myth that sexual desire decreases with age. While physical and hormonal changes may affect sexual craving, they do not inhibit the desire to be intimate. Both men and women experience a decrease in testosterone and estrogen respectively. Lower testosterone levels often weaken erection while decreased estrogen causes vaginal dryness. Also, medications, like anti-depressants, or anti-hypertension do affect libido and arousal.

However, older couples may continue to have satisfying sexual interaction if they keep the line of communication open. They can schedule afternoon or evening dates to share their thoughts, have brunch or dinner, or watch a movie together. My favorite recent movie about a long-time married couple is “5 Flights Up” with Morgan Freeman and Diane Keaton. Watching romance may ignite some light in your love life.

Intimacy after 60 requires innovation, an open-mind, and, more importantly, a commitment to love and couplehood.

Be creative and you will be surprised.

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Health education brought to you by WholeCare.