The magazine's editorial vision is to offer women a refreshingly honest and empowering perspective on sexuality and aging. Its cover features actress Jane Seymour who says "I don't want to be defined by my age," emphasizing her commitment to living life fully without shame or fear. Inside, readers will find articles about topics like how to talk to your partner about their libido, ways to spice up your love life, and advice from experts on navigating midlife relationships. The magazine also highlights real people's experiences, showcasing the diversity of desire that exists among older adults. As one contributor puts it: "Sexual pleasure doesn't end at 40." The magazine encourages its audience to explore and embrace their bodies and desires while providing practical tips for healthy living and loving. In addition, it offers advice on how to navigate dating and sex in middle age, such as avoiding body shaming and focusing on communication rather than performance. It also provides resources for finding supportive communities where people can share their stories and connect with others in similar situations. All in all, 40 Something is a powerful voice for mature eroticism and intimacy, offering an alternative to the stereotypes often perpetuated by mainstream media.
In this section we'll examine the negative impact of ageism in our culture when it comes to sexuality and aging. We'll discuss how society views aging women and men as being less attractive, desirable, or even less capable of enjoying intimacy. This can lead to feelings of shame, embarrassment, and isolation for those who are looking for companionship and connection later in life.
Normalizing Desire and Intimacy
Next we'll talk about why normalizing desire and intimacy is important for all ages but especially crucial for older adults. By destigmatizing these topics, we can create a more open dialogue around them and help individuals feel comfortable exploring their own needs and wants. Through this kind of empowerment, older adults may be able to find fulfillment in their relationships while still feeling respected and valued by their partners.
Real People's Stories: Showcasing Diversity
The magazine also features real people's stories on various aspects of sex and love after 40. These personal accounts showcase the diverse experiences that exist among older adults and provide inspiration for others who may be struggling with similar issues. From couples rekindling their romance to single women finding companionship again, readers will see that there are many paths to fulfillment later in life.
Tips for Healthy Living and Loving
We'll offer practical advice for living healthier lives while pursuing pleasure and intimacy. We'll discuss how to stay physically fit and mentally sharp as well as communicate effectively with partners.
We'll provide resources for finding supportive communities where people can share their stories and connect with others in similar situations.
Sexuality and Ageism in Mainstream Media
Ageism has a profound impact on sexuality and intimacy for older adults. Society often portrays aging women and men as less desirable or even less capable of enjoying physical pleasures like touch, kisses, and intercourse. This can lead to feelings of shame, embarrassment, and isolation for those looking for companionship and connection later in life. It can also create pressure on younger partners to engage in behaviors they don't want out of fear of being seen as "less than." By normalizing desire and intimacy across all ages, we can destigmatize these topics and help individuals feel comfortable exploring their own needs and wants. This empowerment can allow older adults to find fulfillment in their relationships while still feeling respected and valued by their partners.
Research on Ageism and its Impact on Intimacy
Research shows that ageism is pervasive in our culture when it comes to sex and love. Studies have found that many people believe older adults are less attractive, less capable of experiencing pleasure, and more likely to be frail or unhealthy. These attitudes contribute to negative stereotypes that perpetuate the idea that seniors should not seek out intimacy or explore their bodies after a certain point. As one expert puts it: "Older adults are frequently denied the right to experience healthy erotic lives because of cultural beliefs about what constitutes 'normal' sexual behavior."
Researchers have also discovered that many older adults actually report higher levels of satisfaction with their sex lives compared to younger counterparts.