How Your Sex Life Changes After 60

One of the myths of aging is that a satisfying and enjoyable sex life after 60 is impossible. As with most myths, however, this one has long since been disproved.

This article explains what to expect from intimacy after 60 and offers some tips on keeping romance alive as you age.

Are Older People Having Sex?

According to the National Poll on Healthy Aging, 40% of those between 65 and 80 are sexually active. More specifically, 54% of those with a partner report being sexually active, two-thirds of older adults say they are interested in sex, and 73% say they are satisfied with their sex life.

Thanks especially to improved nutrition and healthcare, people live longer lives. And the quality of life in those later years is improving, which plays a role here.

Still, as people age, they may have sex less frequently than they did before due to hormonal and other health changes. In addition, frequency can decline as marriage gets longer.

Health Benefits of Sex After 60

There may be health benefits to maintaining your sex life. One study published in 2016, for instance, compared cognition to the sexual activity of people between ages 50 and 89.

Considering several factors, researchers determined that there is indeed an association between more sex and improved recall. While men showed more aptitude in remembering number sequences, women had a better memory overall.

How Intimacy Evolves

Intimacy doesn't become any less important once you hit 60. The nature of intimacy can undoubtedly evolve, though.

When you're younger, you tend to heavily associate relationships with sex. It's pretty normal, especially during the reproductive years when hormones play a prominent role in instincts.

However, as people age, their perception of intimacy may expand.

Showing Affection

Quite often, a more mature look at intimacy comes with age, one in which all roads do not necessarily lead to intercourse. A hug, a kiss, even holding hands can be quite enjoyable.

Sex itself can also become more passionate and comfortable even as the urgent lust of youth dissipates.

Experiencing Freedom

Additionally, there is a sense of freedom that comes with having sex after a certain age. For instance, you no longer have to concern yourself with pregnancy, so there may be more opportunities to enjoy being close to another person.

However, the risk of sexually transmitted diseases does not disappear with age.

Growing Closer

There is also a special closeness that couples in long-term relationships feel. Simply knowing that your partner is lying next to you in bed can be a great comfort.

As people get older, many find themselves appreciating this closeness even more. It often becomes most apparent after the death of a partner, with many widows noting that the nights are the loneliest times.

Keeping the Romance Alive

There are several things you can do to keep the romance alive. They all start by taking care of yourself. If you're not physically healthy, it will be that much harder to remain sexually healthy.

Eat Well and Exercise

If you eat a nutritious diet, you'll have more energy for any activity, including sexual activity. It's good to stay active as well.

Do your best to maintain your strength and agility with whatever form of exercise fits best into your lifestyle. Keeping up with a fitness program will also help improve your flexibility and self-image. All of this will only make sex more pleasurable.

Treat Medical Issues

For some couples, erectile dysfunction (ED) can become an issue. If so, talk to a healthcare provider.

There are many ways to treat ED or to manage it, including:

• Medications
• Surgical procedures
• Vacuum devices

Likewise, vaginal dryness can cause discomfort during penetrative sex. A quick trip to the drugstore can solve that problem.

A water-based lubricant is usually effective and available over the counter. Using lubricant can also provide extra motivation to experiment with different forms of foreplay that can more effectively induce physical arousal.

Experiment

Your body will change as you age. These changes are inevitable for everyone and, as a result, sex will change as well. As a result, you may find that certain forms of intimacy are no longer easy or possible. And while this may be frustrating, try to see this as an opportunity.

Try new things, explore each other's bodies, and discover new sources of pleasure. For example, you can try intimate acts like hand massage, oral sex, and using toys.

Even something as simple as a foot massage or a long embrace with kisses can feel good. These may seem like small things, but they can redefine intimacy for both of you.

Summary

Many people over 60 have a vibrant sex life. However, as you age and your body changes, you may find that your idea of intimacy evolves to include sex and other forms of affection.

Take care of your body by exercising, eating well, and tending to health conditions. This cannot only make sex after 60 easier, but more enjoyable. In addition, try out new things in the bedroom to keep things interesting.

A Word From Verywell

If you are worried about your sex life due to aging, know that sex doesn't have to dwindle just because of your age. Sexual health is an integral part of overall health and well-being. So, don't give up on your own sexual life just because things are different.

Talk to your partner and explore what makes you both comfortable. Intimacy can make you happy and keep your relationship strong, no matter your age.