Older Canadians are having more sex — and it's really good. So why does it bother us so much? — via healthing_ca healthnews
Studies indicate exercise may help improve the the links in the nervous system between separate brain areas, improving brain health.Seniors also don’t have to worry about the risk of pregnancy, and they know their bodies better — what they like and don’t like — and are often not shy about communicating it. Many are willing to try experimenting with role playing, lubricants and sex toys.
But there are many benefits to being sexually active, including increased self-esteem, a greater sense of well-being, a stronger immune system, closer intimacy and connection, reduced anxiety, and improved sleep.— puts it: “Sex doesn’t disappear, it just changes form.” Meaning it doesn’t necessarily involve penile-vaginal intercourse. It can be as simple as holding hands, kissing, hugging and caressing.
“[They] can still be interested in having sex but issues of privacy, consent, societal stigma — where we don’t want to think or talk about older adults still having sex — can lead to a culture of don’t ask, don’t tell,” says Rosen. “Consequences [of that may be] they’re not provided with the education or tools to have that safe sex.”
Many physicians have closed or negative attitudes, are uncomfortable or ignorant when discussing safe sex with their senior patients, so they don’t often think of testing for infections. Family members, too, may feel awkward bringing up the sex lives of their elders. And retirement homes appear to be lagging in educating their residents.“Staff should have awareness and manage it in a sensitive way,” says Rosen.