Sexual desires do not necessarily go away once a person has reached age 65. These feelings are natural and should be explored so long as they are approached in a healthy manner. Tucson home care professionals discuss 4 of the most important reasons why people should remain sexually active in the senior years.
1. Strengthens Bones
Having sex can help seniors strengthen their bones, increase their flexibility, and prevent slips and falls that lead to more serious complications. When having sex, seniors should make sure the room has adequate lighting, and the furniture will need to be stable. These are environmental hazards many seniors don’t think about while having sex, but they could lead to fractures.
2. Promotes Cardiovascular Health
Having sex keeps the blood flowing and the heart pumping, which promotes circulation and stops arteries from blocking, allowing oxygen to get to the heart and preventing a heart attack. However, if seniors are not careful, they may experience abdominal pain due to sexual activity. If they begin to feel a shortness of breath, they should stop immediately and consult with a doctor.
3. Relieves Pain
During sex, the body produces the hormone oxytocin, which leads to an increase of positive endorphins. The flow of these endorphins in the body make people feel better emotionally and physically. When seniors have high levels of oxytocin in their bodies, they are likely to experience a decrease in arthritis pain and headaches. However, they will need to remember to maintain good posture while relaxing. With the increased amount of oxytocin in the body, pain tolerance also increases, but not being mindful of movement can lead to serious pain and swelling due to a pulled muscle.
4. Enhances Quality of Life
Having sex allows seniors to connect with others on an emotional level. They can experience happiness and joy through the sense of touching. Seniors who have strong emotional connections are more social and live longer lives, but they should not limit their social connections to sex. If a serious health condition prevents the ability to have sex, seniors may become isolated. Instead of solely depending on sex for a social connection, all seniors should focus on a variety of activities.
To learn more about senior health and wellness, reach out to Home Care Assistance. Our caregivers are available 24/7 to assist with tasks like bathing, grooming, and exercise, and we also offer specialized Parkinson’s’, stroke, and Alzheimer’s care Tucson seniors can rely on. For more information on our in-home care services, call (520) 276-6555 to schedule a free in-home consultation with one of our Care Managers.