Top 5 Myths of Sex Over 50
There are many myths about sex and intimacy, especially when it comes to aging. Thankfully, with research and my own experiences working with older couples we can debunk these myths.
#1. Our sex drives go down as we get older.
Having a healthy sex life is important at any age. And the need for intimacy is timeless. While sex may not be the same as it was in your 20s, it can still be fulfilling in different ways. In fact, sex often becomes more interesting as we age. Recent studies show that almost half of people 50 and older report enjoying sex more than ever.
Why? Because people over 50:
Have more experience and know what feels good
Have more leisure time because the kids have been raised and they’re retired
Have more of a need to be close to someone else, instead of wanting to play the field and party
#2. It’s harder to get aroused as we get older.
Arousal doesn’t go away with age but it can take more effort to “get the engine started” for both men and women. But this is where foreplay comes into the picture. The people who are the best in the world at foreplay are usually older couples.
#3. We’ll have sex less often as we get older.
Frequency of sex does not depend on age. Instead, it is much more dependent on the quality of the relationship. Studies show that across ALL ages, couples who report higher levels of marital satisfaction also report higher frequencies of sex.
#4. Sex must involve intercourse and orgasm.
Not true. Couples consistently report that emotional and physical closeness to the partner is shown to be more important than experiencing orgasm. Everyone loves a good orgasm, but sexual satisfaction comes from feeling desired by your partner, and that can come in many forms. Mental and emotional attraction are much more important, and much more powerful, in older couples.
#5. Health problems and the menopause will end our sexual life.
Most people over 50 are in good sexual health and have no interest in ending that area of their life! The impact that aging does have on men and women physically can be remedied with some simple medical solutions.