Sex for the boomers

Among the young (that’s anyone under the age of around 40 years), there

are some terrible ageist stereotypes. One of the most annoying is that, as people age, they lose interest in sex. Quite why this myth should have begun is unclear. Perhaps it’s to do with how people perceive beauty. When people are in their prime (not quite sure what age that is), they are looking around for a mate and so focus on the young and healthy in their immediate surroundings. Magazines are full of images of young men with six-packs and young ladies with whatever attributes are important to the readership. When the young look at the old and wrinkly, they are not attracted and so never believe they would ever believe physical attraction could exist. When people have aged together, they see past the wrinkles to the person beneath the skin.

As one of the old, I have discovered that my genes did not come with a best-before date stamped on them. Instead of collapsing into a drooling heap, I have continued an active sex life. From what I read, I now look forward to continuing this life well into my 70s and 80s. In other words, for as long as the body permits and my partner consents. But there are problems to deal with. For women after menopause, there may be less lubrication and a lower level of sensation. There are hormones available in tablet form and as topical creams to improve sexual enjoyment. For men, there is the classic problem of erectile dysfunction — usually caused by a reduction in the flow of blood. For this, we have cialis — a magic tablet that gives up to thirty-six hours of happy memories.

But let’s not forget that having sex does involve some degree of physical mobility, so keeping fit is desirable (if not necessary). Equally, we don’t want body weight to get in the way, so eating a healthy diet is good for both partners. After that, it’s up to the couple to set their own pace. Research suggests that couples who enjoy regular sex together have a less stressful and healthier retirement. Allowing your sexuality to play a significant part of your life enriches that life and keeps the bonding of couples strong. There is only thing the men have to be worried about. Even with the help of cialis to keep the blood flowing smoothly into the penis, will they be able to keep up with the women? Ah, the challenges of staying young while getting old!

15 December 2008 | Men's Issues | Comments