As you get older, you may notice several changes in your body. Changes occur in your digestive system and your cardiovascular system. You may start to see going to the toilet more frequently, and your memory may no longer be what it was a few years ago. Another area in your life that may undergo some changes is sex – but with the right lifestyle elements and mindset, there’s no need to stop having sexual intercourse as a senior. Many men continue to enjoy sex well into their older years. We’ll take a look at what you should know about old age and sex in this article.
Keep Your Weight In Check
Obesity remains a vital healthcare problem throughout the world. The rate of obesity is also relatively high among older individuals. Statistics show that about 29.3% of people who are 65 years or older are obese. Several complications come with obesity, including a risk of high blood pressure and elevated glucose levels. Additionally, it’s also more common to develop high cholesterol if you are obese.
All of these factors can have an impact on your sex life. When you are obese, the risk of erectile dysfunction increases. By exercising more and eating a healthy diet, it’s possible to keep your weight in check. These strategies can also help improve blood sugar and blood pressure control and bring your cholesterol levels down. In turn, you may find that you face difficulties with your erectile function less frequently.
Check Your Testosterone Levels
The male body creates testosterone on its own, but the production of this sex hormone starts to decline once you reach the age of 30. By your senior age, your body produces less testosterone than it did when you were 30. Low testosterone can cause several problems with your sex life.
It’s essential to be on the lookout for low testosterone levels. As levels of the hormone fall, you may notice that you start to experience a low sex drive. You may also have less frequent erections upon waiting. Testosterone does not only affect your sexual health, however. A low level of the hormone can also cause a reduction in muscle mass and an increase in fat stored in your belly. Memory loss, poor mood, and fatigue can set in when your testosterone levels become low too. Do not, however, automatically assume that these symptoms are related to your testosterone. A blood test can help to determine whether you have low testosterone, and your doctor can assist in identifying the root causes for your symptoms.
Consider The Use Of Medication
There’s no shame in admitting you need some help with your erections as you get older. The good news is that there are medications that can help with your sexual abilities. Cialis, Levitra, and Viagra are all excellent options if you need some help in the bedroom. They are FDA-approved for the treatment of erectile dysfunction.
These medications may help you get an erection faster and ensure it lasts for a longer period of time. In turn, you may find that sex becomes more enjoyable again. Your ability to please your partner in this particular department would also be elevated when you consider this option.
Apart from these medications, there are a couple of other alternative options available too. It’s a good idea to talk with your doctor about the medical options that you can turn to if you have problems with your erectile function. They may ask you about your specific symptoms in order to devise a treatment plan that will work for your particular scenario.
Regular Checkups With Your Doctor
Many people overlook the important role that regular checkups play. Keeping an eye on your health is important, and many people only identify problems like high blood pressure during one of these checkups. By regularly visiting your doctor for a general checkup, they can do certain in-office tests to detect hypertension, diabetes, and other diseases.
These are conditions that can wreak havoc on your body and even cause you to experience problems in the bedroom. When your doctor identifies such a problem during a checkup, they can provide an early intervention. With the right treatment plan in motion, it’s possible to reduce the risk that these conditions will affect your sexual abilities and erectile function.
Another thing to consider here is the fact that erectile dysfunction can sometimes be a sign of heart disease. If you notice problems with your erections, then schedule an appointment with your doctor. With heart disease, early treatment programs can significantly improve the prognosis of the disease.
Stop Smoking
Another thing that can also cause problems with your sex life is smoking, a habit that is enjoyed by many seniors. The ingredients used in the production of cigarettes can cause damage to your arteries. This particular habit has also been associated with a higher risk of clogged arteries and puts you at an increased risk for heart disease.
One thing to keep in mind is the fact that your ability to have an erection largely depends on the supply of blood. When arteries are clogged, and your blood flow is reduced, it makes it harder for enough blood to enter your penis. This can lead to erections that are not rigid enough for sexual intercourse. Smoking is not only something that can affect your erectile function, but it can cause many other complications for you too. The habit significantly increases the risk of developing lung disease, including cancer.
Bottom Line
Just because you’re getting older does not mean you cannot enjoy sex anymore. As a man, you may start to notice some trouble getting an erection or keeping it up during sex after the age of 50, but there are effective strategies that can help. From medication to exercise and getting a regular checkup at your doctor, follow the tips we shared in this post to have a healthy sex life in your senior years.