Sexual activity has been known to benefit older adults' quality of life, emotional wellbeing, and social connectedness. Research suggests that it can enhance physical and mental health, reduce stress, lower blood pressure, improve cardiovascular function, increase self-esteem, decrease depression and anxiety, and even boost cognitive performance.
Factors such as age, gender, relationship status, health, and personal preferences may influence these outcomes. Sexual engagement in later life is multifaceted and includes both physical and psychological aspects. It involves intimate interactions between partners based on trust, communication, respect, affection, sensuality, satisfaction, pleasure, and orgasm. Some older adults may enjoy solo activities while others require partner stimulation. Studies show that people who are sexually active have better sleep patterns, stronger immune systems, fewer falls, reduced risk of heart disease, improved memory retention, less chance of getting arthritis or diabetes, and greater longevity. Yet, many seniors face challenges related to aging, including physical limitations, sexual dysfunctions, and sexual trauma.
Ageism and stigma around sexual expression often impede older adults from enjoying satisfying sexual lives. Ageism refers to negative stereotypes about older individuals due to their chronological age, which can lead to discrimination, prejudice, and exclusion. Stigma around sexual behavior, particularly for older women, can be severe, resulting in shame, embarrassment, and isolation. These obstacles must be addressed by addressing cultural norms that perpetuate ageist attitudes and promoting positive representations of sexually active seniors.
There is no denying the benefits of sexual activity for older adults.
It is essential to acknowledge individual needs, preferences, and barriers that may affect their participation in such activities. Addressing ageism and stigma surrounding sexual engagement in later life requires education, advocacy, and policy change.
Does sexual engagement in later life improve quality of life, emotional health, and social connectedness?
There are several studies that show that engaging in sex at older ages can lead to an improvement in overall wellbeing, quality of life, and mental health (Smith et al. , 2019; Jones & Smith, 2020). According to the research, sexual activity has been associated with increased levels of happiness, satisfaction with life, reduced stress, better physical health, and improved cognitive functioning (Jones & Smith, 2020).