According to Caring.com, sexual health and STDs are often associated with younger generations. However, contrary to popular belief, it is an issue that also affects the elderly, especially those living in nursing homes. Senior living communities encourage seniors to socialize and build relationships with other residents, so it’s inevitable that sexual relationships will develop.
cases of STDs is on the rise in all age groups, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimating that 1 in 5 Americans are affected at any time. Although cases are more common among teenagers and young adults, more and more adults aged 60 and over require treatment for STDs, including herpes simplex, syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis.
Sexual health is a difficult topic to discuss with an elderly relative or friend. But since older people are still sexually active, it’s a conversation that needs to be had. Awareness can help encourage older people to practice safe sex and reduce their risk of contracting an STD.
Are older people still sexually active?
Everyone has a psychosociological need for affection and tenderness. From holding hands to having sex, this desire for intimacy it does not fade as people age, sex remains an important part of relationships. Adults remain sexually active as they get older according to an article in the The New England Journal of Medicine.
Results of older adults studied as sexually active:
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73% of the 57 to 64 age group
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53% of the 65 to 74 age group
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26% of the 75 to 85 age group
Misconceptions about the elderly and sex
Many people believe that old people don’t have sex and that sexuality belongs to the young. Often it’s because they feel older people can’t or don’t want to have sex. These are some of the misconceptions society has about the elderly and sex.
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Older people don’t want to have sex: The natural need for intimacy does not disappear just because one is old. Older people may not talk about sex in the same way as younger people, but many of them still have the desire to have sex.
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Old men can’t play in the bedroom: Erectile dysfunction affects men of all ages, but is more common in older men, with almost 70% of 70 year olds males who have SD. Fortunately, ED is treatable through prescription medications, lifestyle changes, and other methods, allowing seniors to overcome the condition and enjoy a healthy sex life.
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Older women dislike sex: Older women may want sex but find it uncomfortable due to vaginal dryness caused by decreased estrogen levels. Over-the-counter lubricants and creams can ease discomfort, making intercourse more enjoyable.
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Seniors do not need to use protection when having sex: Many elderly people have the impression that you don’t need to use protection when you have sex. Although pregnancy is not a problem, older people can still contract STDs, so they should use condoms, especially if they are in non-monogamous relationships.
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Old people are not attractive: Aging brings changes to the body and appearance, but seniors still take care of themselves. Chemistry brings two people together, regardless of age, attracted by looks, personality, mutual interests and life experiences.
Improving Sexual Health Education for the Elderly
Sexual health education and safe sex campaigns came to the fore in the 1980s. At that time, many of today’s seniors were already married, so they never learned about STDs and why practicing safe sex is important.
These classes are generally aimed at young adults, but older adults also require the same education to help prevent the spread of STDs. In addition, sexual relationships in later life may bring other issues due to physical limitations. Educating seniors about sexual health increases awareness of potential problems they may face and can help them maintain a healthy sex life.
Anticipated changes in the sexuality of older adults as they age
Today’s seniors were around in the 1960s and 70s, when sexual expression was part of everyday life. This generation still considers sexuality important, but with age comes some changes.
Sexuality includes physical and emotional desires, feelings and actions. Some seniors desire intimacy in a relationship, while others choose to avoid sexual relationships. Studies show that Sexual activity declines in older age, and women are less likely to be sexually active than men. However, with more time, fewer distractions, more privacy, and the ability to express themselves better, many couples find greater satisfaction in sex and a better relationship than when they were young.
Causes of sexual problems in the elderly
Disabilities, illnesses, surgeries, and medications can cause it sexual problems for older adults. Studies show that about half of sexually active older adults you are experiencing some kind of sexual problem as a result of health problems such as:
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Arthritis
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Chronic pain
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Dementia
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Heart disease
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Incontinence
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Surgery
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Depression
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Stroke
Fortunately, there are many ways that seniors can overcome the problems and continue to have an enjoyable sex life. Arthritis pain can be relieved with exercise, rest, and warm baths, and doctors, pharmacists, and other health professionals can help seniors address many of the common causes of sexual problems, including medical conditions, incontinence, vaginal dryness, and erectile dysfunction.
Preoccupation with physical health that becomes an obstacle to sex
Bodies change with age and physical health could be seen as an obstacle for two older people who want to be intimate. However, joint pain, muscle pain and other physical limitations should not be an obstacle to a sexual relationship.
Physical problems can change the way older people approach sex. They should be encouraged to find ways to make intercourse more comfortable to ease aches and pains. Couples can try exploring new positions or using pillows or cushions to support different body parts. For further advice, talk to a therapist or doctor.
How seniors can maintain an active and enjoyable sex life
Both older partners go through age-related changes, so communication is key. You may feel that your partner is avoiding sex or is no longer interested in you. But, often, this is not the case. Talk to your partner about how they feel and express how you feel in return. Taking the time to understand how the changes affect you both physically and mentally is the first step to rekindling your sexual relationship.
Many therapists and health care professionals have experience helping couples work through sexual issues. Physical problems, such as ED or vaginal dryness, can be solved with medication, while individual or couples therapy can help correct any emotional problems that are getting in the way of a satisfying sex life.
How to protect older adults from STDs in the elderly
The number of elderly people with STDs, incl HIV, is on the rise, with studies showing cases over doubling between 2010 and 2020 aged over 65. Unfortunately, retirement communities have become breeding grounds for STDs, leaving some seniors more vulnerable to infection. These seniors could be at the highest risk of contracting an STD in retirement communities:
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Men taking drugs for erectile dysfunction
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Postmenopausal women
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Older adults who use online dating and do not know a partner’s sexual history
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Anyone with a weakened immune system
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Older people are embarrassed to discuss sexual matters with a doctor
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Older adults who are sexually active but not practicing safe sex
**Information provided by Caring.comwho are dedicated to helping families find the best senior care for their loved ones.
