Sex up to 90 is something quite normal

Men: Sexuality in old age is not too exhausting
Sexuality also plays an important role in old age - even if only a few talk about it. In fact, age sexuality is not an unusual or amazing thing, but something quite normal. International studies show that men between 70 and 90 exercise sex regularly in some form. Fear of physical strain is not necessary here - as the Uro-GmbH Nordrhein, a medical network from North Rhine-Westphalia, points out.

Already at the age of about 40 years the level of the sex hormone testosterone decreases in men. The tissue of the penis is increasingly losing its elasticity. "Physical changes make erections often slower and less spontaneous," says urologist Dr. Reinhold Schaefer from the Uro GmbH. "Most men then need more physical stimulation to achieve an erection." In addition, the penis is then not so stiff and the erection angle is smaller. The lower testosterone level also leads to a loss of pleasure. All these are changes that are completely natural. "If necessary, a urologist can prescribe medication, for example, to reinforce the feeling of pleasure again," says Dr. med. Shepherd. In addition, the body is more susceptible to disease in old age. Some of them also affect sexuality. For example, diabetes can cause erectile problems due to circulatory disorders or impaired nerve conduction. Also known colloquially as "vascular calcification" arteriosclerosis causes circulatory disorders of the erectile tissue. Similarly, operations in the pelvic area such as prostate or bowel surgery have a negative effect on sexuality. Even medicines for chronic diseases can affect the sexual interest, the excitability and the ability to experience. Switching to another drug often provides relief, but should in principle be done only after consultation with the prescribing physician.

"For men, it is first and foremost important to first accept changes in age and to adapt sexual behavior to the changed circumstances," explains Dr. Shepherd. "So sometimes it makes sense to try out more comfortable positions for sexual intercourse." Often, the exchange of caresses or masturbation is more important than the actual sexual intercourse. Despite all physical changes Schaefer advises in principle to an active love life in old age. Studies show that it seems that especially those men who are sexually active for a long time have a longer life expectancy. "Worry that sexuality is too stressful in old age and it could lead to an overload of the heart, are unfounded," says the urologist. "Sexual intercourse is no more strenuous than climbing stairs quickly." (Pm)

Picture: Lupo