Let’s Talk About Sex

As an older person I still feel sexual excitement. Is this normal?

Many older adults still desire and enjoy a level of sexual satisfaction or have an active sex life. Some adults report being more sexually liberated and more sexually confident as they get older. Being in a healthier mental, emotional and physical condition makes for better and more frequent sexual experiences. Sexual pleasure is definitely not only for the young.

There are some challenges to consider, like chronic illness, the side-effects of medication, as well as physical changes to the body and the use of mobility aids that can make sex challenging or less enjoyable.

A common issue in men’s sexual health requires holistic intervention because, as men get older, erectile dysfunction can be an early sign of possible cardiovascular disease.

An important aspect of women’s health concerns becoming post-menopausal. Anxiety around preventing unsupportable pregnancies diminishes, which contributes to greater sexual pleasure and enjoyment. A lower libido and dryness of the vagina associated with menopausal changes are normal and there are many solutions to these challenges.

Regardless of age, the key to fulfilling sexual relationships is to know what excites you, whether that is masturbation, penetrative sex or touching. Always communicate your needs and preferences and remember to stock up on lubricant. The need to have safer sex by using either external or internal condoms is advisable for all, because they decrease the risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections.

Check with your health-care provider for safe ways of enhancing sexual pleasure. LS ● Dr Tlaleng Mofokeng (MBChB), sexual and reproductive health practice, Disa Clinic, safersex.co.za E-mail your questions to lifestyle@sundaytimes.co.za with SEX TALK as the subject. Anonymity is assured.