Normal aging brings physical changes in both men and women, according to WebMD. Sometimes it may also affect one's ability to have and enjoy sex.
The National Institute on Aging (NIA) reported that as a woman ages, her vagina can shorten and narrow. The vaginal walls can become thinner and stiffer.
Most women have less vaginal lubrication. These changes can affect sexual function and/or pleasure.
These changes don’t mean women can't enjoy sex. NIA said that doctors can suggest over-the-counter vaginal lubricants and moisturizers or prescribe vaginal estrogen.
Most men notice a difference in their sexual response by age 60 to 65, said Mayo Clinic. It may take longer for the penis to become erect, and erections may not be as firm.
It may also take longer to achieve full arousal and to orgasm and ejaculate. Erectile dysfunction also becomes more common.
AARP.com wrote that prescription drugs can make the penis harder and make sex last longer. In addition, there are other options including implants, pumps and shots.
Conditions that affect one’s general health and well-being may also affect sexual health, cautioned Mayo Clinic. Illnesses that involve the cardiovascular system, high blood pressure, diabetes, hormonal problems, depression or anxiety can pose challenges to being sexually active.
Other conditions that may affect sexual activity include arthritis, chronic pain, incontinence and stroke.
The good news is that there is usually treatment.
Certain medications can inhibit sexual response and desire and your body's ability to become aroused or have an orgasm, said Mayo Clinic. If you're experiencing sexual side effects from a medication, consult a doctor. It may be possible to switch medications to one with fewer sexual side effects.
Having safe sex is important at any age. NIA wrote that older people who are sexually active may be at risk for sexually transmitted diseases such as syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydial infection, genital herpes, hepatitis B, genital warts and trichomoniasis.
WebMD warned that almost any sexually active person is also at risk for being infected with HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. The number of older people with HIV/AIDS is growing. One out of every 10 people diagnosed with AIDS in the United States is over age 50.
If you're having sex with a new or different partner always use a condom, advised Mayo Clinic. Also talk with your doctor about other ways to protect yourself from sexually transmitted diseases.
There is a lot that people can do to remain sexually active regardless of age, said WebMD.
Follow a healthy lifestyle. Try to reduce stress. Regularly see your doctor. Most importantly, keep a positive outlook on life.
Sources:
Schwartz, Dr. Pepper. "Truth About Sex As You Age - Sex After 50 - Sex Tips and Advice - Dr. - AARP." AARP - Health, Travel Deals, Baby Boomers, Election News, Over 50, Online Games, Retirement Plan. N.p., n.d. Web. 21 Feb. 2013.
http://www.aarp.org/relationships/love-sex/info-05-2011/sex-myths.html
"Sex and Aging: Causes of Sexual Problems in Seniors." WebMD - Better information. Better health. N.p., n.d. Web. 21 Feb. 2013.
http://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/guide/sex-aging
"Sexual health and aging: Keep the passion alive - MayoClinic.com." Mayo Clinic. N.p., n.d. Web. 21 Feb. 2013.
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/sexual-health/HA00035
"Sexual health: Sex and aging - MayoClinic.com." Mayo Clinic. N.p., n.d. Web. 21 Feb. 2013.
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/sexual-health/MY01464/DSECTION=sex-and-aging
"Sexuality in Later Life | National Institute on Aging." National Institute on Aging | The Leader in Aging Research. N.p., n.d. Web. 21 Feb. 2013.
http://www.nia.nih.gov/health/publication/sexuality-later-life
Reviewed February 21, 2013
by Michele Blacksberg RN
Edited by Jody Smith
Keywords: vaginal, these changes, take longer, sex, penis, conditions that, orgasm, medication, sexually transmitted diseases, AIDS, your doctor, sexually active