Even though we don’t see a ton of it in mainstream media, people over 60 enjoy a rich and fulfilling sex life. In fact, many older people say it is essential to their happiness, health, well-being and better quality of life.
Often older adults become more creative with their sexual identity and sexual intimacy. With this more sophisticated knowledge, they are able to accommodate sexual issues such as erectile dysfunction, vaginal dryness, lowered sex drive, and sexual sensations.
This also includes experimenting with different positions, sex aids, or changing their sexual play or dynamic. Further, many seniors are simply looking to explore new ways to enjoy their sexuality as well as sexual pleasure, leaving prior inhibitions behind.
Recognized By Health Professionals
Healthcare professionals worldwide recognize the health benefits of sex and achieving orgasm. While sexual pleasure and intimacy can be overlooked by healthcare professionals due to embarrassment, it is an important topic that should be supported by a healthy dialogue.
Benefits Of Having Regular Sex
Having regular sex can bring added benefits to individuals at every age. These include:
Younger looking skin
People who have sex at least 3 times a week can look years younger than those who have it less frequently as sex can trigger the production of a human growth hormone that helps with skin elasticity.
Increased Circulation
Sex also pumps more oxygen around the body to help boost circulation and increase the flow of nutrients to the skin. Plus, intercourse is a good cardiovascular workout. Sexual activity can also help produce the hormones necessary for tissue restoration.
Get Fewer Colds
Studies have shown that having sex at least once a week can raise the body’s levels of immunoglobulin A (also known as IgA), which is a cold and flu-fighting antibody we produce naturally. IgA is the first line of defense against the flu and colds, and in people who have sex one to two times a week, they may have thirty percent or higher levels of IgA.
Could Stave Off Dementia
Numerous studies have shown that those are still active in the bedroom tend to have sharper cognitive function than those who are less sexually active. This could be due to the hormone dopamine which is released during sex and can aid in cognitive function. Women who are sexually active also tend to score higher cognitive tests as well.
The “Feel Good” Hormones
Sex also helps release endorphins, which are called the “feel good” neurotransmitters. It then increases the creation of oxytocin, also called the “love hormone”, which can help with pain relief and stress relief. Further, numerous studies have shown that those with a healthy sex life are less likely to feel depressed and are overall more positive about aging.
Improving Heart Health
Contrary to all the rumors about sixty-somethings being at risk of heart attacks during sex, studies have shown that the opposite is actually true and that having regular sex can significantly reduce an individual’s risk of a heart attack. Regular sex has been found to cut the risk of heart attack and stroke, and having regular orgasms can diminish your chance of developing heart disease as well. Of course, reach out to your primary care physician if you have any concerns about your heart health and heightened physical activity.
Changes In Libido
While many women can experiences changes in libido because of hormone changes due to menopause, with the right balance of hormone replacement, you can get the help you need to continue to have an enjoyable and fulfilling sex life. With the help of lubricants, especially those with natural ingredients, you can get the help you need to have a satisfying experience in the bedroom.
Feeling Healthy Helps You To Have Better Sex
Everyone has a better day when they are feeling healthy and this includes when they want to have sex. So ensuring you are eating right and including lots of healthy foods in your diet — while reducing your sugar, carbohydrates, and saturated fat intake — will help to improve your overall health and make you feel more in the mood for sex. Remember also to boost your intake of zinc and vitamin B3 for health, sexual energy, and overall wellness.
Sex Toys As Tools For Play
Whether you are in a relationship, single, or exploring new facets of your own sexual identity, there are many benefits to incorporating sex toys into your sex play. It can not only increase your sexual pleasure, but also benefit your overall health, and bring you closer to your partner.
The more you know about your body, the more pleasure and satisfaction will be reached during sex. And while there may have been a stigma at one time or another about who uses sex toys, today they are as common as the conversation about sex itself.
That said, there are a multitude of sex toys to choose from which aid in increasing sexual stimulation, furthering arousal, and heightening sensation. So finding the right toy for your personal satisfaction can help in experiencing a more enjoyable and playful sexual experience.
Connection Is Key
Whether you are connecting with a partner or learning more about your own body, discovering new ways to connect to your sexuality is key to any healthy sexual dynamic. Taking time to learn what your likes and dislikes are, as well as your partner’s, will ensure you a more enjoyable sex-positive experience.
No matter what, remember to have fun, learn to express yourself in new safe and playful ways, and you will find that you can have a healthy and fulfilling sex life at any age!
About the Author
Jessica Gordon is the former managing partner and co-founder of LUVOQA, an intimate products e-tailer. Before that, Jessica was a clinical neuroscience and imaging researcher at Weill Cornell Medical Center and in the Department of Psychology at Columbia University. Jessica holds an M.S. in Clinical Mental Health from Columbia University and a B.S. in Cinema and Photography from the Roy H. Park School of Communications at Ithaca College.
More About Sex and Mature Dating
Sex and Dating Over 60: When To Make Love For the First Time
Mature Dating Statistics on Sex and Love
Perils of Mature Dating: Is My Date Capable of True Emotional Intimacy?
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