The benefits of intimacy and sexual relations have no expiration date, and many people stay sexually active their entire lives.
Benefits of Sexual Activity
Regardless of age, intimacy has emotional benefits, such as reducing stress and promoting closeness with your partner, as well as effects on physical health. Among them, it is noted that it stimulates the creation of antibodies in the immune system, can lower blood pressure, can relieve arthritis and lower back pain, and helps you sleep better.
With age and health conditions, your body can change, and so can your sexual life. However, if it is something you want to maintain, you can consult your doctor about existing alternatives so that you can continue enjoying it safely. If you have a partner, discuss your concerns and possible improvements to make the experience a positive one for the both of you.
Myths About Sexuality
- It is only to have children
- Weakens with menopause and then disappears
- Only men are interested in it
- Older persons are not attractive
- After a certain age, it is not normal to have sex
Research in sexuality among older adults indicates that while interest and sexual activity may diminish with age, most women and men remain sexually active.
Safe Sex
Sexually transmitted diseases are a risk at any age. Triple-S Advantage recommends that if you are sexually active, you ask your partner—especially if you are not in an exclusive relationship—about their sexual history while sharing your own. You might feel a bit uncomfortable, but this is preferable to infection.
Protective Measures
- Adopt as a motto that practicing safe sex is for everyone, not just for young people. This means the use of condoms as a protective measure against sexually transmitted diseases.
- Speak with your doctor and clear your doubts. This is not the moment to be shy. Educate yourself about the risks, what sexually transmitted diseases are, and what is the best way to protect yourself.
- If you are sexually active, get tested regularly (for syphilis, HIV/AIDS, gonorrhea, among others). If you have contracted any of these diseases, be honest with your current or future partner.
Other Steps Towards Positive Sexuality
- Talk to your doctor about symptoms or any other aspect that may concern you regarding sexual activity.
- Speak with your partner about your concerns, feelings, and expectations.
- Experiment with new routines that make you feel more comfortable. Spend more time caressing, kissing, and enjoying each other’s company. This is not about how often you have sex; it is about finding activities that make you both feel happy as a couple. Enjoy flirting.
- Take care of your health. Take your medications as recommended. Eat healthily, maintain a healthy weight, and exercise to promote desire and pleasure.
- Address your traumas, fears, insecurities, and inhibitions. It is never too late to seek help from a mental health professional.
- Sexual energy is a source of health. Use it to improve your quality of life. Give yourself the right to enjoy your sexuality.
- Set boundaries for your children and other family members to respect your needs for intimacy, time alone, spaces for recreation, and spending time with friends.
Remember that sexuality is a natural aspect of being human.
