Over 50 Sex: Separating Fact from Fiction

Based on the imagery you see in media these days, you would be inclined to believe that sex was only for young people. Of course, this is hardly the case. Sex for older adults is covered with mistruths and confusion. Have a look at some misconceptions about “over 50 sex”, and the truth behind such claims.

Fiction: People aren’t interested in sex past a specific age.
Fact: Sexuality doesn’t come with an expiration date. However, for those over 50 years of age, satisfaction from sex is contingent on more than what younger people are content with. According to the National Council on Aging, of people over the age of 60 who are sexually active, 70% of the women and 74% of the men are more satisfied with their sex lives than they were in their 40s.

Fiction: Men have trouble getting erections as they get older.
Fact: Erectile dysfunction is not a symptom of aging. That said, reduced hormone levels can instigate changes to sexual functionality. Males might need more physical stimulation to get aroused, and the erection might not be as thick as it used to be, but the act itself is just as enjoyable. A male in his 20s can likely have a second round of intercourse 15 to 20 minutes after his first orgasm. A male in his 50s can have another round, too. It just might take a few hours to get erect again.

Fiction: Psychological and emotional factors inhibit a female’s desire for sex after her midlife point.
Fact: Physical factors play a more dominant role in this instance. Changes to hormones during menopause can impact the sexual reaction in a woman. Low levels of estrogen produce dryness in the vagina, making intercourse uncomfortable. For some, reduced levels of testosterone can result in a diminished sex drive and reduced energy levels. Some females have a bigger interest in sex, post-menopause, though. This might be due to a shift in the ratio of testosterone to progesterone and estrogen.

Fiction: As women age, they have difficulty having an orgasm.
Fact:  Most post-menopausal women find themselves with enhanced sexual pleasure, as well as having more intense or frequent orgasms.

Fiction: Sex with a partner isn’t that enjoyable after masturbating.
Fact: Sexual pleasure can be enhanced with masturbation either alone or with a partner. For females, it aids in keeping vaginal tissues flexible and wet, in addition to increasing hormone levels, and as such, fuels their sex drive. Men who masturbate regularly can maintain their erectile reaction.