Many people believe that older adults are not interested in sex. Younger people are often uncomfortable with the idea that older people have sexual interests and often active sex lives.

It is true that sex is likely to change over time for you, just as it does for everyone. This does not mean that sex at age 78 is not as good as it was at age 18, but that it is different. There are positive and negative changes.

Many people are greatly relieved to be having sex at an age when they no longer have to worry about the issue of pregnancy. Also, most older adults already know what it is that brings them pleasure sexually, and may be more willing to let a partner know about their desires.

Older men experience some pluses and minuses. Most older men will need direct stimulation of the penis to get an erection. However, premature ejaculation is almost never a problem in older men. They may take longer periods of time to reach orgasm. Often, though, this is welcomed by a female partner, allowing her more time to reach orgasm, as well.

Older women experience some pluses and minuses of their own. Women tend to reach a sexual peak at a much later age than men, so that a fifty year old woman may have a stronger sex drive than when younger. Older women may have thinning of the membranes in the vagina as they age. This can easily be remedied with the application of water-based lubricants available next to the condoms in drugstores and grocery stores.

Books and videos are available to help older adults become more comfortable with their sexuality. An excellent source is a California company called The Sexuality Library at (800) 289-8423.

Don't forget that aging does not protect you from sexually transmitted diseases. Learning about safer sex using condoms will protect you and your partner. Enjoy your sex life but take care of yourself at the same time.

Choose a Health Topic Category Aging Alcohol Problems Allergies Arthritis Back & Neck Problems Blood & Circulatory Problems Bones, Joints & Muscles Brain & Nervous System Cancer Cardiovascular Health Child Health & Development Common Illnesses Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surg Dental Health Diabetes Digestive System Drug Abuse Ear, Nose & Throat Eating Disorders Exercise & Fitness Eyes & Vision Family Planning Foot Care General Health Genetic Disorders & Birth Defects Headaches Health Quizzes Hearing HIV Infections / AIDS Hormonal Disorders Infectious Diseases Medications Men's Health Mental & Emotional Health Nervous System Newborn Care Nutrition Parenting & Family Life Personal Safety Pregnancy & Childbirth Preparing for Emergencies Respiratory Problems Sexually Transmitted Diseases Skin Health Smoking Sports Medicine Stress & How to cope Surgery Symptoms Teenage Concerns Test & Examinations Urinary and Genital Systems Weight Control Women's Health   Go