Page 29 - Seniorstoday July-2023 Issue

nonetheless it can still be extremely Take your time-
pleasurable. While older adults do face As you age, it takes longer to get aroused.
challenges when it comes to sex like Be patient with yourself and your partner.
erectile dysfunction, low libido, find
penetrative sex painful or are unable Explore each other’s entire bodies-
to move their body in a certain way. Your skin is your largest sex organ.
Don’t let these challenges deter you, Touching and being touched all over is
there’s a solution for it all. There are one of the most pleasurable acts. Explore
medicines, lubricants, physiotherapy, a new ways to touch each other- lighter,
gentle approach and even alternatives to slower, faster or harder. Trial and error is
penetrative sex. the only way to figure out what you and
Where there is a will, there is a way. your partner enjoy. There’s no “right” way
to enjoy touching, everyone likes different
Expand your definition of sex- things. The way to keep it exciting and
Let’s get a few misconceptions out of the pleasurable is constant communication.
way. It doesn’t matter if you’ve known your
Sex without intercourse is still sex. partner for donkey’s years or a couple of
Sex is more than just babies and hours. Your body has changed and it’s time
procreation. to rediscover it and what turns you on.
Sex is any activity that arouses you,
wakes you up and brings you sexual Use your mouth and hands-
pleasure. Meaningful pleasure in touching, Oral sex is a great alternative to penetrative
kissing, foreplay and other intimate sex. Communicate with your partner about
connections between you and your partner what you like and what you don’t. You’ll be
become more gratifying than penentration. surprised as to what your hands and mouth
Once you let go of preconceived notions, can do to your partner.
understand your sexual abilities and needs
and simply be open minded, there is a Explore the erogenous zones-
whole world of ways to to enjoy sex and
intimacy as an older adult.

Embrace change in sexual desire-
The only thing you need to do is alter your
mind set. Once you free your mind, accept
your change in sexual desire, the change in
your body and the change in your needs,
it’s very easy to enjoy sex as an older adult.
Be open and honest with yourself and
your partner about what feels good and
what doesn’t, what your sexual interests
are and what you can and can’t do. Sexual
experiences are wonderful no matter your
age.

SENIORS TODAY | ISSUE #49 | JULY 2023 29