Author: Maria Alfano-Huggins
Get your mind out of the gutter. This is not one of those kinds of posts (wink, wink).
As men age, their sexual health and function can decline. This can lead to a decrease in sexual desire and function, which can negatively impact their overall quality of life. However, research has shown the importance sex can have in maintaining good health and well-being as men age.
One reason why sex is important for men as they age is that it can help to improve their physical health. Regular sexual activity has been linked to a range of health benefits, including improved heart health, reduced risk of prostate cancer, and better immune function. Additionally, sex can be a great way to stay active and maintain physical fitness as men age.
Why Having Sex is Important as Men Age: Benefits, Risks, and Tips
Sex can also be important for men’s emotional and mental health. As men age, they may experience increased stress, anxiety, and depression. However, having sex can help to reduce stress and promote feelings of relaxation and well-being. Sexual activity has also been linked to improved mood, increased self-esteem, and better overall quality of life.
The Importance of Having Sex As Men Age
So how important is sex to older men? Contrary to popular belief, the older generation can enjoy a healthy sex life well into their 80s and beyond.
As men age, their sexual health can become a concern. Many men experience changes in their sexual function, such as erectile dysfunction, decreased libido, difficulty achieving orgasm (including premature or delayed ejaculation), lower stamina, and changes in their partner’s desire for sex. However, maintaining sexual health is important for overall well-being.
Physical Benefits
Sexual activity can have physical benefits for men. It can help to improve cardiovascular health, boost the immune system, and reduce the risk of prostate cancer. It’s also a great way to get some exercise, burn calories, and strengthen muscles.
Mental and Emotional Benefits
A good roll in the hay can have mental and emotional benefits for men. It can help to reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and boost self-esteem. Having sex can also be a way to connect with a partner and feel a sense of intimacy and closeness.
Relationship Benefits
Maintaining sexual health can also have benefits for relationships. Sexual activity can help to strengthen bonds between partners and improve communication. It can also be a way to express love and affection for a partner.
Overall, maintaining sexual health is important for men as they age. It can have physical, mental, and emotional benefits, as well as benefits for relationships. By staying informed about sexual health and seeking treatment when necessary, men can continue to enjoy a fulfilling sex life as they age.
How Often Do Older Men Need Sex – Studies have shown that older gentlemen are content with getting a little something in the bedroom on average 3.13 times per month. And, 73% of those polled seem to be quite happy with their sexual state of affairs after age 60.
How Age Affects Men’s Sexual Health
At what age do men stop needing sex? Is that actually a possibility? In their 60s and 70s men start to notice dramatic changes to their libido. As men age, their sexual health can be affected by a variety of factors, including physical changes, mental and emotional changes, and changes in their relationships.
Physical Changes
One of the most significant physical changes that can affect men’s sexual health as they age is a decrease in testosterone levels. This can result in decreased libido, as well as difficulty achieving and maintaining an erection. Other physical changes that can affect sexual health include:
- Erectile Dysfunction – This is a common condition that affects many men as they age. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including underlying health conditions, medications, and lifestyle factors. Narrowing blood vessels going to the male penis stemming from conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes can cause ED. Included in the list of probable culprits are issues with hormones, a previous injury, or surgery.
- Prostate problems – As men age, their risk of developing prostate problems, such as an enlarged prostate or prostate cancer, increases. These conditions can affect sexual health in a variety of ways, including difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection and decreased libido. Not to mention the psychological stress of knowing you have prostate cancer and the effect it will have on your desire to do anything, let alone have sex.
- Cardiovascular disease – Men with cardiovascular disease are more likely to experience sexual problems, such as erectile dysfunction, than men without the condition. If you consider that an erection is obtained through the engorging of blood vessels and cardiovascular disease means the blood vessels may be restricted, it’s no wonder that some men may have trouble performing.
Mental and Emotional Changes
As men age, they may experience a variety of mental and emotional changes that can affect their sexual health. These changes can include:
- Stress and anxiety – can have a negative impact on sexual health, making it difficult to achieve and maintain an erection.
- Depression – can affect sexual health in a variety of ways, including decreased libido and difficulty achieving an erection. Depression can also cause Anorgasmia which is the clinical term for not being able to reach orgasm. It’s like a vicious circle, being depressed affects your sex life which in turn gives you increased sadness.
- Body image issues – As men age, they may experience changes in their bodies that can affect their self-esteem and body image. This can make it difficult to feel confident and comfortable during sexual activity.
Relationship Changes
As men age, their relationships may also change, which can have an impact on their sexual health. Some factors that can affect sexual health in the context of a relationship include:
- Communication – is key to a healthy sexual relationship. As men age, they may need to work harder to communicate their needs and desires to their partners.
- Intimacy – As relationships mature, intimacy can take on different forms. It’s important for men to be open to exploring new ways of being intimate with their partner.
- Relationship stress – Stress in a relationship can have a negative impact on sexual health, making it difficult to feel comfortable and relaxed during sexual activity.
In Summary
Overall, there are many factors that can affect men’s sexual health as they age. By staying informed about these issues and working with their healthcare provider and partner, men can maintain a healthy and fulfilling sexual life as they get older. It’s time to understand the importance of sex as men age and the impact on their day to day life.
Other Posts You Might Enjoy:
All images from Canva.com