Aging and sexuality Sex therapy

both physical , emotional transformation throughout various stages of life can affect body , sexuality. subsequent decline in hormone levels , changes in neurological , circulatory functioning may lead sexual problems such erectile dysfunction or vaginal pain. these physical changes affect intensity of youthful sex , may give way more subdued responses during middle , later life. issues low libido , sexual dysfunction considered byproduct of old age. emotional byproducts of maturity, — increased confidence, better communication skills, , lessened inhibitions — can create richer, more nuanced, , satisfying sexual experience. during aarp s last surveys in 1999, 2004, , 2009 statistics well-being among older adults has increased; however, overall sexual satisfaction has decreased. nevertheless, older adults believed active sexual life offers great pleasure contributes materially overall emotional , physical health.

older adults

sex therapy, @ age, involves sensate-focused touching

over years, little attention has been paid older adults , sexuality. population of older adults , life expectancy continues grow, there information sex therapy not accepted. cultural , sexual roles changing throughout lifecourse. people age, viewed asexual or incapable of possessing sexual desires. presence of sexual dysfunction during old age can impacted health problems. there many endocrine, vascular , neurological disorders may interfere in sexual function, along medications , surgeries. older men experience changes occur in sexual physiology , affect both erectile function , ejaculation. while older women experience physiological effects of aging after menopause, resulting in decreased production of estrogen. leads increased vaginal dryness, general atrophy of vaginal tissue, , genital changes (reduced size of clitoral, vulvar, , labial tissue). cognitive changes , decline factor influences sexual activity. dementia, alzheimer s , other mental health disorders may have effect on sexual behavior, producing disinhibition or relationship difficulties subsequent effects on couple s sexual relationships.

sex therapy older adults looks @ factors influence sexuality in older adults, including sexual desire, sexual activity, value of sexuality, , health. can include sensate focus, communication, , fantasy exercises psychodynamic therapy.

sex therapy older adults similar sex therapy other populations. includes use of water-based personal lubricants (for decreased vaginal lubrication), hormone therapy, , medications sex therapists working older adults should know sexuality , aging. should aware of how stereotypes affect clients. true lgbt-identified clients.

older adults may need more education sexuality , sexual functioning. curriculum includes communication, masturbation, body image, , spirituality. teaches talking doctor sexual activity. optimal sex education older adults include information sexually transmitted infections (stds/stis), such hiv/aids.