There's no doubt that your life will change as you grow older.
But aging doesn't mean giving up a loving physical relationship. Most older people are able to enjoy a satisfying sex life, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
However, just as at most other points in one's life, level of sexual activity depends on desire and having a willing partner.
Normal changes
Aging brings some natural changes to the sexual desire and ability of both men and women, according to the NIH.
Women may experience changes in the shape and flexibility of the vagina. Another common change is a decrease in vaginal lubrication. This can affect sexual pleasure, but it's easily remedied with over-the-counter vaginal lubricants. Other medical issues, such as hysterectomy or mastectomy, may affect your desire for sex more than your physical ability.
Men often experience at least some degree of erectile dysfunction—difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection. But for many men it's possible to manage and even reverse these problems, according to the NIH. If you're having erectile problems, talk to your doctor. Your doctor can help find out what's causing the trouble and treat it accordingly. Possible treatments include counseling, surgery and prescription drugs such as sildenafil (Viagra), vardenafil (Levitra or Staxyn), avanafil (Stendra) or tadalafil (Cialis).
Outside factors
Sexual problems can also result from other illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes and arthritis. But while these problems may have an effect on your sex life, they don't have to end it, according to the NIH. By communicating with your partner and following your doctor's advice you should be able to carry on.
Counseling may also help people who experience these problems.
Different but good
No matter how your sexual life changes with age, it can still be good. For some people, sex later in life even has some advantages.
Changes in sexual ability may force couples to communicate more about their needs. Couples also learn to take more time with intimate activities such as hugging, kissing and caressing. In the end, the result can be a more fulfilling experience for both partners.
Reviewed 10/23/2024