As we age, sex becomes less and less like what we experienced in our twenties. However, sex is not just for the young, and it is not necessary to voluntarily resign from it in more advanced age.
It brings physical and psychological benefits in terms of maintaining better physical condition, contributing to mental balance, and boosting self-confidence. So why shouldn't we enjoy it?
The likelihood of erectile dysfunction increases with age (22% of men over 60 and 30% of men over 70 suffer from erectile dysfunction), but it is not an inevitable part of aging. The cause of problems does not generally lie in age, but is very likely related to physical or mental condition.
Causes of Erectile Problems in Older Age
- Health Condition
- Medications
- Emotional Anxiety
- Lifestyle
- Physical Injury
1. Health Condition
Erectile dysfunction in older age is most commonly associated with cardiovascular diseases (heart and vascular), neurological diseases (multiple sclerosis), diabetes, chronic kidney disease, or Peyronie's disease. Erectile dysfunction is often the first sign of the abovementioned conditions, so it is highly advisable to get examined by a doctor to ensure everything is okay in this regard.
2. Medications
Are you taking prescribed or over-the-counter medications? Some medications may hinder achieving or maintaining an erection, such as antidepressants, medications for high blood pressure, or antihistamines. They can affect blood circulation, nerve pathways, or hormone production. If you feel that the medications you are taking may be affecting your ability to achieve an erection, it is best to consult with your doctor to see if a treatment with less negative impact on erection could be chosen.
You might be interested in: Problems with Erection and Doctor´s Visit
3. Emotional Anxiety
Relationship problems, especially in a partner relationship, can strongly affect performance in the bedroom. Likewise, depression, anxiety, low self-confidence or self-esteem, feelings of guilt, or fear of sexual failure can contribute to a reduced ability to achieve an erection.
You might be interested in: Erection Problems: What about Your Partner?
4. Lifestyle
Lifestyle significantly influences sexual performance more than most people are willing to admit. A sedentary lifestyle, lack of exercise, overweight, excessive consumption of unhealthy foods, smoking, alcohol in excessive amounts, and other addictive substances can and often do have a devastating effect on erection.
5. Physical Injury
Injuries and post-operative conditions in the pelvic area can also become a cause of erectile problems.
Treatment Options for Erectile Dysfunction in Men Over 60
As evident from the above, lifestyle changes, reducing stress factors, consulting with a doctor regarding medications being taken, and thorough medical examination are always a good choice in case of erection problems.
Among the most common ways to treat ED in older men and men in general are:
Oral medications for erectile dysfunction, vacuum pumps, intracavernosal injections (injections into the penis), intraurethral administration (administration into the urethra) of medication (alprostadil).
Do you know the Benefits of Sex in Advanced Age?
Mature age usually brings deeper intimacy with a partner, fewer distractions, and more time for cuddling and talking. Other benefits include zero worries about pregnancy and much better know-how.
At the same time, there are plenty of fantastic and increasingly sophisticated erotic aids on the market to spice up intimate moments. There is a range of helpers from flavoured lubricating gels to various vibrating devices. There are erotic aids for her, for him, and for both at once. Knowing how to play, enjoying discovery, and sharing joy is the best anti-aging medicine. So, off to the bedroom!
Tips for you:
- Talk to your partner. Finally, you have time to talk about your desires, needs, and unfulfilled dreams.
- Try morning sex instead of evening sex. In the morning, the testosterone level is highest, promising better experiences for both of you.
- Expand your sexual repertoire. It's not necessary to attempt bedroom acrobatics. Caressing, kissing, and cuddling work wonders.
- Don't forget about romance. Candlelit dinners, beds with rose petals, and pleasant music are still in vogue.
- Enjoy yourselves whenever you both feel like it. Enjoy yourselves with each other.
Author: Ava Williams
Sources:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/sexual-health/in-depth/senior-sex/art-20046465
Prevalence of ED in older age: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/02/160208183449.htm
Pelvic surgery and ED: https://www.nature.com/articles/3901353