A third of people over 60 have a more intense sex life than those in their twenties.

The results of a German study. How not to waste the opportunity to make love at any age.

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Sexual desire tends to decline with age due to a combination of biological changes, general health, medications, and psychological/relational factors. And above all: it's not inevitable, nor is it the same for everyone.

The main factors are:

  • Hormones. In men, testosterone tends to gradually decline with age; in women, menopause brings a sharp decline in estrogen and changes in androgen levels. Sex hormones contribute to sexual desire, arousal, and response. 
  • The body responds differently to stimulation. As we age, it can take longer and more intense stimulation to achieve arousal; erectile difficulties are more common in men, while women may experience dryness and pain during penetration. These problems can, in turn, reduce sexual desire. 
  • General health. Diabetes, cardiovascular disease, chronic pain, obesity, and other conditions can reduce energy and desire or make sexual activity more difficult. 
  • Medicines. Some antidepressants, cardiovascular drugs, and other medications can reduce libido, arousal, or orgasmic ability. 
  • Psychology and relationships. Depression, anxiety, stress, changes in body image, and relationship problems can have a significant impact. 

Age, however, doesn't necessarily dampen desire . Some people maintain a high libido even into their 70s or 80s; in some cases, sexuality may even improve because there are fewer pressures related to work, children, and performance.

A German study of adults aged 60–82 , compared with a sample of 22–36 year olds , found that nearly a third of those over 60 had higher sexual activity and sexual thoughts than the average young adult.

To best enjoy sexuality in old age, and not waste it, doctors suggest:

  • Accept the changes in your body and don't always try to force it with interventions, for example, plastic surgery.
  • Plan and seek out intimate moments with complete freedom.
  • Surprise your partner with something unusual.
  • Indulging in the pleasure of masturbation
  • Never stop courting, even your partner

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