5 Myths About Sexuality In Old Age

Sexuality in old age is considered by many to be a taboo subject that is not discussed out of shame and fear, or simply due to ignorance. We live in a society where the idea of ​​the benefits of eternal youth is conveyed, where sexuality appears linked to youthfulness and constitutes a space dedicated especially to those who are not too old.

Growing older does not mean suddenly losing interest in sex. Normally, if people are in good health, they will remain sexually active throughout their lives. Therefore, once again, the premise is repeated that enjoying good health is the key to enjoying sexuality to the fullest.

A wall of stereotypes, prejudices, and marginalization has been built around sexuality in the elderly. This curtain leads older people to stop talking about sexuality, in many cases to not share it with anyone and ultimately to abandon it.

To enjoy sexuality in a healthy way in old age, it is necessary to know the changes that occur in the body over time and what influence these will have on the field we are dealing with today. Understanding these changes implies creating a life plan in which well-being is not limited by the loss of physical abilities.

In this sense, being aware of the physical changes that come with age and becoming truly aware of them in one’s own body is essential to confront the set of myths that surround the subject of “greater” pleasure and that can lead to rejection of sexuality.

Specialists agree that the most important organ in sexuality is the brain. Any fear or insecurity can become the biggest obstacle when it comes to having intimate relationships. Men’s main fear is usually not getting an erection or not maintaining it, while women’s fear is usually more linked to their physical presence, that is, not feeling erotic or sensual. Age is indeed linked to certain inexorable changes, but that is precisely why they must be accepted naturally.

The latest studies in gerontology speak of the importance of evolving our false beliefs about sexuality, in which fears and, in many cases, the education we have received lead us to think of older adults as asexual beings.

Men have greater sexual needs than women.

One of the most widespread myths about sexuality in older people has to do with the desire and belief that men have a greater sexual need. But sexual desire has nothing to do with gender. Both men and women show sexual needs at any age and, of course, also in later life.

Aging and sex, except in extreme cases of pathology, are good traveling companions. It is not about trying to have a sexual life like in youth, but about rationed efforts, intensifying the loving relationship with the partner, and maintaining the ability to enjoy.

Sexuality is for young people.

It is not true that from a certain age onwards, one gradually loses interest in sex. Sexual activity tends to remain stable and satisfactory in those who have a sexual history in which these two elements have been the protagonists.

Sexual capacity over time is conditioned by factors such as physical and mental health or the existence of an active partner but is rarely determined.

The practice of sex in older adults is harmful to health

The reality of this statement about sexuality in the elderly is quite different: sexual practice helps them feel better and is also great for their physical and mental health.  The feeling of self-worth and happiness makes the elderly see their self-esteem increase and the emotional bond with their partner grow.

There are benefits associated with pleasure, such as feeling happy, eliminating pain, regulating insomnia and depression, promoting the activation of the immune system, and improving the climate of interpersonal relationships, which older people can continue to enjoy.

Older people don’t need a partner.

Love has no age, what is normal is that it changes over the years. In youth, it can be more passionate, while with time it can become a more mature and serene feeling, where other issues such as company and care are prioritized. An emotional bond is created by being able to share with the partner that complicity leads the other to feel confident and desired.

Sexual impulses deplete with age.

Aging does not in itself lead to the death of desire or the cessation of sexual activity. The body changes and the sexual response indeed tends to be slower, but the pleasure is the same if the appropriate stimulus is provided.

Sex is great at any age and a good sex life provides self-esteem and pleasure. In this sense, in many cases, there is no objective reason to give up an enormous source of well-being, such as the enjoyment of sexuality, as the years go by. Unfortunately, this is a taboo subject in society and even in the doctor’s offices.