Diet and Exercise

Staying active and healthy can support your sexual health.

• Eating healthy foods and exercising regularly can improve energy, heart health, and blood flow.
• Exercise can improve mood and lower the risk of depression, which can affect sexual desire.
• Try to be active most days. Choose activities you enjoy, such as walking, dancing, swimming, or gardening.
• Eat a balanced diet with vegetables, fruits, whole grains, healthy fats, and lean protein.

A healthy body supports a healthy sex life.

Intimacy Beyond Intercourse

Sexuality is more than intercourse. Older adults can explore different ways to be close and connected.

• Try positions that feel more comfortable
• Spend more time on foreplay
• Use touch, massage, and other forms of affection
• Use lubricants or other aids if needed
• Talk openly with your partner about comfort and preferences

Sexually Transmitted Infections

Older adults can still get STIs. Anyone who is sexually active should understand the risks and how to stay safe.

• Get tested about 3 months after starting a new sexual relationship
• Women after menopause may have thinner vaginal tissue, which can increase risk of infection
• Men who have male partners should get tested after a new partner or at least once a year
• Use condoms or other barrier methods every time you have sex
• Do not share sex toys, and clean them well
• Some medications can help prevent or manage infections like herpes and HIV

Sexual Health in LGBTQI+ Older Adults

Some older adults who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or intersex may face extra challenges, such as discrimination or lack of understanding in healthcare.

Healthcare providers should:

• Use respectful and supportive language
• Ask about sexual orientation, gender identity, and partners in a respectful way
• Protect privacy and be sensitive
• Understand that hormone therapy, past surgeries, or past experiences may affect care

Talk openly with a healthcare provider who understands LGBTQ+ health. Organizations like SAGE and the National Resource Center on LGBTQ+ Aging can offer support.

Sexuality in Long-Term Care

Older adults in nursing homes or assisted living have the right to privacy and consensual relationships.

Facilities and staff should balance:

• Respect for privacy and independence
• Safety, privacy, and the ability to give consent

When to Talk to a Healthcare Provider

Talk with your healthcare provider if you or your partner has:

• Pain during sexual activity
• Loss of desire that causes concern
• Vaginal changes
• Trouble with erections
• Concerns about medications affecting sexual function
• Questions about safe sex

Key Takeaways

• Sexuality and intimacy continue throughout life
• Changes with age are common and can be managed
• Treatments are available to improve comfort and satisfaction
• STI prevention and testing are important at any age
• Open communication with your partner is important
• Everyone deserves safe and respectful sexual health care

Talk with your healthcare provider about safe sex, regular testing, and ways to protect yourself and your partner.