Grey-Bruce Boomers Spring 2023

HEALTH AND WELLNESS
by Monica Blair
In older adulthood, changes related to weight, skin
elasticity, muscle tone, stamina, hair loss, and body
odour, among other things, in addition to cultural
perceptions of what is “attractive,” can impact how
people feel about their bodies and this apprehension
can impact one’s ability to relax and enjoy sex.
Impacts of health on sexuality
Aside from the normal, expected changes of aging,
many people may experience a decline in their
health, and new illnesses may crop up that can also
impact their ability to have sex. Some factors that
can impact sexuality and intimacy include:
Some common physical changes can cause sex to
feel less comfortable later in life. As women age, they
may produce less vaginal fluid due to lower levels
of estrogen, which can cause friction and irritation
during sex. This is a normal post-menopausal
change and there are many lubricants on the market
that can help with this.
For men, most commonly those over age 60, Erectile
Dysfunction (ED) can be distressing. It can be caused
by several physical, psychological, or social factors,
including heart conditions, diabetes, metabolic, or
neurologic conditions, anxiety, depression, stress,
obesity, or substance use. This can be very normal
and may last several months to years, but it is often
treatable by a health care provider.
Although these physical changes may be distressing,
they can allow couples to be less preoccupied with
performance, giving them the chance to focus more
on closeness and connection and find other ways to
express their affection.
Some older adults may also feel less comfortable
with their body image as regular physical changes
occur. Body image is a subjective picture of one’s
own physical appearance, established both by selfobservation
and by noting the reactions of others.
Chronic pain – Chronic pain and arthritis can
make sex more uncomfortable. Pain should not be
just “accepted” as a normal part of aging. There are
many medications and strategies that can help with
pain issues.
Obesity – Obesity is a known cause of ED and can
also cause decreased stamina.
Diabetes – Diabetes is another known cause of
ED. Diabetes that is not well-controlled can lead to
other health and wellness concerns.
Heart disease – Narrowing of the arteries can
cause limitations with blood flow, making it more
difficult to obtain or maintain an erection. Some
people may also be nervous about engaging in
sexual activity after a heart attack out of fear it could
happen again.
Stroke – Stroke can cause partial weakness or
paralysis, which can be limiting for many aspects of
one’s life.
Surgery – It can be uncomfortable and anxietyprovoking
to return to pre-surgery activities.
However, most people are able to return to a similar
level of activity.
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