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Keep a Healthy Love Life, for Life
Intimacy in the bedroom can help
a couple feel more committed and
content. And research suggests
that for older adults, sexual activity
is linked to better health.
"Many older adults consider sexual
activity to be a natural part of their
lives," says Evelyn Minaya, M.D., a
gynecologist with Riverview Medical
Center. "Yet they may not experience
the level of closeness they desire."
Break Out Of The Rut
If your bedroom habits have become
somewhat stale, talk with your partner
about what you might do to spice
things up. Try these tips:
- Tell each other what you like — and
don't like. For instance, you might
discuss the types of intimacy that you
enjoy. "Don't assume you know everything
about your partner," advises
Dr. Minaya. "Preferences change."
- If you usually go to bed right after
the evening news, take a warm bath
before bedtime to relax. Or try cuddling
in the morning, when you have
more energy, rather than at night.
- Feeling a little out of practice? There
are many tasteful, informative books
and other resources for couples that
can help you refresh your skills.
- Try to maintain realistic expectations
about your love life. Every
couple has times when they are
more — and less — in sync. Stresses
of life can also influence your libido.
Look At The Big Picture
If you're unhappy with your sex
life, examine your partnership as a
whole. "Maybe there is another aspect
of your relationship that is tense,"
explains Dr. Minaya. "For example, if
you have grown unhappy with your body, it can affect your sexual relationship.
Work on building your selfesteem
and it may ease the strain."
Perhaps the problem goes beyond
the bedroom. Maybe you're upset with
how your partner communicates with
you. Whatever the issue, acknowledge
that it has come between you two. A
simple and constructive conversation
is a good place to start.
Find Fixes For Physical Problems
As you age, changes in your body can
affect your sex life. "It's not uncommon
for older adults to feel their sex drive
slow down," says Dr. Minaya. "Factors
like menopause in women, erectile difficulties
in men, medications, and even
depression can affect libido."
But there are solutions:
- A lubricant can help ease the vaginal
dryness that some women experience.
- Adhering to your medication schedule
could ward off the long-term
side effects of existing conditions.
- Drinking only in moderation can
help you avoid sexual difficulties,
such as erection problems, that are
caused by too much alcohol.
If you are concerned about your sexual
health, don't hesitate to speak with
your doctor. He or she can help you
identify factors that may contribute to
sexual problems and offer solutions.
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