The importance of physical touch is often overlooked when it comes to human development, yet research has shown that social support from partners can help maintain healthy aging and reduce feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression among older adults.
There are various factors that can interfere with this vital aspect of wellness, including chronic pain, cognitive decline, and physical limitations. One such factor is loneliness, which affects up to half of older adults and negatively impacts mental and physical health. Thus, it's crucial for individuals and society at large to understand how emotional closeness through communication, shared activities, and companionship affects physical intimacy and overall quality of life.
Research indicates that physical affection, including hugs and kisses, can provide psychological benefits beyond just pleasure.
A study found that men who received regular back rubs reported lower levels of stress and felt more connected to their partners than those who did not. Another study showed that women who were physically close to their partners during conversation experienced increased brain activity in regions associated with empathy and social bonding. These findings suggest that physical touch may promote wellbeing by stimulating oxytocin production in the brain, boosting mood, and enhancing relationship satisfaction.
In addition to its role in fostering emotional connection, sexual expression can also play a significant part in reducing loneliness, relational disengagement, and psychological distress among older adults. A recent study explored this topic and concluded that sexual expression can buffer against these negative outcomes. Specifically, the researchers examined the association between sexual desire, arousal, and behavior in older adults and their experience of loneliness, depression, and anxiety. They found that individuals who engaged in regular sex or masturbation had higher levels of positive emotions and fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression.
They observed that sexually active older adults tended to have better relationships with their partners compared to non-sexual counterparts.
While further research is needed to confirm these results, it's clear that sexual expression has important implications for older adults' wellbeing. It's essential for healthcare providers, caregivers, and family members to recognize the importance of intimacy and encourage open communication about physical desires and needs. By doing so, we can help older adults maintain emotional closeness and reduce feelings of isolation, leading to improved overall quality of life.
How does sexual expression buffer against loneliness, relational disengagement, and psychological distress in older adults?
Research suggests that engaging in satisfying sexual activities can reduce feelings of loneliness and relational disengagement among older adults. This is because sexually active individuals experience a sense of belonging, connection, and intimacy with their partners, which may lead to improved overall wellbeing and reduced levels of depression and anxiety. Sexual activity also releases endorphins and other hormones associated with pleasure and relaxation, which can help reduce stress and improve mood.