Some people may assume that sex is only for the young, but the truth is that seniors too can enjoy active and fulfilling sex lives. However, as we get older, some physical, emotional, and environmental negatives can affect that sexual spark or even the ability to act on it. This article will explore some tips, ideas, and suggestions for senior sex – everything from positions to devices.
Why a Healthy Sex Life Is Important for Seniors
It’s no secret that sex has a long list of health benefits, including reduced stress, improved cardiovascular health, enhanced immune function, and increased life satisfaction. Also, sexual activity has been associated with a lower risk of depression, anxiety, and chronic pain. That’s why seniors who engage in regular sexual activity are likelier to have better physical and mental well-being than those who do not.
Physical benefits include a stronger immune system, reduced pain, enhanced heart health, and better sleep. Add this to all the mental bonuses, you get increased happiness and life satisfaction.
Seniors Having Sex – Common Challenges
Although senior sex can be as amazing as any other sexually-active age, there can be some substantial roadblocks that slow or stops them from enjoying and maintaining an active sex life. These challenges include physical limitations, health conditions, and changes in libido (although we could argue these could happen at any age). Thankfully, with some strategies and techniques, they can be overcome.
As we get on in years, our bodies go through several changes that can affect our sex lives.
- One of the physical challenges of aging is arthritis, a condition that affects the joints and causes pain and stiffness. Arthritis can affect the quality of life by limiting movement and causing discomfort during sexual activity.
- Reduced flexibility or mobility issues are another common physical limitation that can make sexual intimacy difficult for seniors.
- Loss of balance can also stifle things, especially for seniors who fear falling during intimacy.
- General pain is yet another challenge that can make encounters uncomfortable and even unbearable for some seniors.
- Fatigue from a number of different sources can make connections exhausting
Addressing Physical Limitations and Health Conditions of Senior Sex
There are many ways that seniors can get around these physical limitations.
For example, changing positions, adding pillows, using assistive devices such as ramps and handrails, and practicing gentle stretches and exercises can make sex more comfortable and enjoyable. Also, seniors with health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure should work with their doctors to ensure that they are healthy enough for sexual activity and to manage any medications that may affect their sex life.
Adding aids and devices can enhance intimacy for seniors with physical limitations. These aids and devices include:
- Vibrators and sex toys can enhance pleasure and minimize pain during intimacy. Sex swings and furniture or other aids can be great if certain positions are a problem.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers, which can reduce pain and discomfort during intimacy and make sex life comfortable.
- Lubricants can minimize friction and enhance pleasure, especially for seniors whose natural lubrication is reduced. (some medications can cause loss of natural moisture)
- Orthopedic pillows and cushions can provide support and comfort during intimacy.
Communicating and Experimenting
Communication (as always) is key to maintaining a healthy sex life. Seniors should be open and honest with their partners about their desires, preferences, and concerns. This can help to build trust and intimacy and to support experimentation and creativity in the bedroom. Couples can also explore new forms of intimacy, such as cuddling, massage, and sensual touch, to deepen their connection and pleasure. Trying different techniques, positions, and settings can also add variety and excitement to a senior’s sex life.
Some of the adaptive sex positions and techniques for seniors with physical limitations include:
- Spooning position, where partners lie on their sides facing the same direction.
- Female-on-top position, where the female partner takes control and minimizes pain or discomfort.
- Side-by-side position, where partners lie on their sides facing each other.
- Seated position, where partners sit and face each other.
- Kneeling position, where the kneeling partner holds onto a stable object.
These positions and techniques offer seniors with physical limitations comfort and pleasure during intimacy. But – remember – these are not the only options. If maneuvering is a real problem, talk to your doctor or a specialist (yes, sex experts like this exists) and get proper advice for what works for you and your partner’s bodies.
Exploring New Ways to Connect Emotionally and Physically
Seniors can improve their intimacy and passion by exploring new ways of connecting emotionally and physically with their partners.
This can include activities such as sharing fantasies and desires, practicing mindfulness and meditation, and engaging in non-sexual touch such as holding hands and hugging. And why not get kinky? Do you think a bit of light spanking or blindfolds are for those 25 to 30? No way. Those who are 60+ have every right to experiment.
Then there’s good, old-fashioned romance, sensuality, and playfulness that can be brought into their sexual routines. This can include activities such as lighting candles, listening to music, wearing sexy lingerie, using aromatherapy, and playing games. Humor and playfulness create a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere in the bedroom – besides, laughing is good for the body, mind, and soul.
Senior Sex – End Thoughts
Yes, it’s true that there are some physical, emotional, and environmental factors that may affect seniors’ sexual experiences. It’s inevitable that we will all face some of these aforementioned roadblocks. But we can now see there are many ways seniors can maintain a healthy and active sex life.
By tackling physical limitations and health conditions, communicating and experimenting with different techniques and positions, and enhancing emotional and physical intimacy and passion, seniors can keep the spark alive in their sex lives – because we all deserve pleasure and connection.
