Senior sex tips

Sex may not be the same for you or your partner as it was when you were younger. But sex and intimacy can still be a rewarding part of your life. Here are some tips for keeping a healthy and enjoyable sex life:

• Talk with your partner. Even if it's hard to talk about sex, sharing your needs, wants and worries can help you both enjoy sex and intimacy more. It's OK to feel vulnerable. Your partner is likely feeling vulnerable too. Talk with each other or with the help of a therapist.
• Visit your healthcare professional. Your healthcare professional can help you manage long-term conditions and medications that affect your sex life. If you have trouble keeping an erection, tell your provider. Erection problems may be the only warning sign of a heart problem. If you're concerned about your testosterone, ask your provider for guidance. Tell your healthcare professional about any tobacco, alcohol or illicit drug use, as these may affect your sexual health.
• See a sex therapist. A therapist may be able to help you and your partner with specific issues. A qualified therapist can help you understand your needs, your worries and refresh your perspective. Ask your healthcare professional for a referral.

• Expand your definition of sex. Intercourse is only one way to have a fulfilling sex life. Touching, kissing and other intimate contact can be rewarding for you and your partner.

  As you age, you and your partner may have different sexual abilities and needs. Be open to finding new ways to enjoy sexual contact and intimacy.

• Change your routine. Simple changes can improve your sex life. Change the time of day you have sex. Try the morning — when you're refreshed from a good night's sleep and when your testosterone levels are likely higher — rather than at the end of a long day.

  Because it might take longer for you or your partner to become aroused, take more time for romance. Try a new sexual position or find other ways of connecting romantically and sexually.

• Bond in new ways. If being physically intimate is too much right now, find new ways to have fun together. Enjoying new experiences may boost your activity level, your mood and even your libido.
• Laugh together. A sense of humor is important to easing the stress that can get in the way of your ability to be intimate.

• Don't give up on romance. If you've lost your partner, it can be difficult to imagine starting another relationship. But socializing is well worth the effort for many single seniors. No one outgrows the need for emotional closeness and intimacy.

  If you start an intimate relationship with a new partner, use a condom. Many older adults don't know that they are still at risk of sexually transmitted infections, such as herpes and gonorrhea.

One final piece of advice for keeping a healthy sex life: Take care of yourself and stay as healthy as you can.

• Eat a healthy diet.
• Exercise regularly.
• Don't drink too much alcohol.
• Don't smoke.
• Think positive.
• Practice gratitude.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Get enough sleep.
• Make time for loved ones and hobbies.

See your healthcare professional regularly, especially if you have long-term health conditions or take prescription drugs. Other conditions and drugs can affect your sexual health, but your healthcare professional can help.