In the last blog, we looked at some uncertainties around sex and sexuality at an older age. Here are a few more:
- Some men may notice that it takes them longer to get aroused and get an erection. At this stage in their lives, it is no longer a case of getting aroused when thinking about sex only, they may need different stimulation and for longer periods of time. Part of the fun might be to rediscover each other’s bodies and see which new zones can be stimulated to get arousal.
- Another issue faced by men due to ageing is the difficulty or inability to obtain and maintain an erection. This is very normal, and in most cases can be solved by sex therapy, penis pumps, penile injections or pills prescribed by your GP.
- Many illnesses and disabling conditions that affect older people can also affect how they respond sexually, such as Parkinson’s, diabetes, arthritis, stroke. In such cases it is important to remember that you are still allowed to feel sexual if you want to, and you should not feel embarrassed or shy to talk to your doctor or a sex therapist about it.
Sex does not stop after middle age, or after you no longer want children, in fact sex and intimacy can be just as good or even better after middle age. Do not deprive yourself of it because you are too shy or embarrassed to ask for help if you are facing problems due to ageing!
Dana Scicluna Azar is a relationship and sex advisor at willingness. She offers therapy to both individuals and couples. She can be contacted on dana@willingness.com.mt. You can visit her profile on: https://zme.tec.mybluehost.me/willingnessmt/team/dana-azar-scicluna/