Senior Sex Myths Debunked

The first, worst, and most damaging myth about seniors is that getting older means saying goodbye to sex. Many older people continue to have satisfying sex lives into their seventies, eighties, and even nineties.

Yes, it’s true, says Edmund Duthie, MD, professor of medicine and chief of geriatrics and gerontology at the Medical College of Wisconsin in Milwaukee: “People still have interest and capacity well into late life.”

One analysis of U.S. men and women found that close to 40 percent of men between 75 and 85 are sexually active. Women report less sexual activity and still others are forgoing sex due to several health issues (for example, hormonal changes, low libido, and erectile dysfunction) and lack of partners. Some of the following misconceptions may also play a role:

Myth No. 1: Physical challenges keep me from having sex.

Though having sex as you get older may require creativity, it is possible — and healthy — to remain sexually active. Unfortunately, says Duthie, far too many people encounter a common obstacle, such as low libido (decreased sex drive) or erectile dysfunction, and because they don’t know who to talk to about it, give up on sex too easily.

Myth No. 2: I can’t avoid pain during intercourse

Duthie acknowledges that women experience biological changes that may result in uncomfortable or painful intercourse. For instance, hormone changes can cause vaginal tissues to become dryer. One possible solution for this common problem is as close as your nearest drugstore — lubricant — and your doctor may be able to suggest others. Certain types of pain, such as aching hip joints, may require a change in position, additional pillows for support, or an over-the-counter pain medication before or after senior sex.

Myth No. 3: There’s nothing I can do to get my groove back.

There is actually quite a lot you can do to reignite your sexual life. Though sex might not be the same as it was when you were in your twenties, more than half of older adults who are sexually active report being happy with their sex lives. One of the first steps you can take to rekindle desire is to visit your doctor to find out if there is a medical reason for any lack of sexual satisfaction.

Overall health is an important factor in your sex life. Older adults who are in good health report having more sex and a greater interest in sex than those whose health is not as good .