KEEPING THAT SPARK

the line. And if someone’s hip hurts, we find a way to accommodate it, not to take it as a sign that part of our lives is over.

Attuned to each other

I’d be lying if I said our sex life was as robust as when we first met, but we do still feel the urge to express our feelings for one another by making love. We kiss and touch a lot, even when we’re not in the bedroom, because that’s what keeps us emotionally and physically attuned to one another.

People in their 50s, 60s and 70s, who grew to maturity in an age of better sex education and greater sexual freedom, are willing to make more effort to keep their sex lives going, or seek counselling if things go wrong. And if we’re vigorous enough to go to dance classes or climb mountains, not to mention getting a little help from HRT or Viagra if it’s required, then it shouldn’t be beyond us to make love.

While I am aware that many people of my age can’t be doing with sex any more or have partners who no longer express desire, that doesn’t mean that sex in the third age – as a topic to discuss rather than be disgusted by – shouldn’t be on the agenda.

For me, sex remains restorative and life-enhancing. And I’ll definitely hang on to that for as long as I can.

Woman’s top tips to help keep things inspiring in the bedroom:

✱ A drop in libido is common in women of menopausal age.

But continuing to have sex may help you push past that period of decreased desire.

✱ If sex is painful, try lubricants, foreplay increased and different sexual positions, or speak to your GP.

✱ As we get older, our bodies change, and a position that was once comfortable might not be any more. Try using a pillow under your back or knees for extra support.