The new revolution of sex and aging: talkin' 'bout my generation.(Better nutrition special report: anti-aging)

The baby boom generation that started the sexual revolution is about to enter elderhood: By 2030, 80 million people will be 60 plus. While many have traded flee love for a committed relationship, kids and an SUV, most likely this generation will reinvent the definition of sex and aging.

Although their parents may still not want to talk about it, research shows that parents of boomers enjoy sex well into later years. "Many people who have entered the golden years say they are having the best sex yet," says Ellen Kamhi, PhD, author of The Natural Guide to Great Sex. "Gone are the days of concern over unwanted pregnancy, and people have more time for relaxation," she says. A study of married and single men and women, ages ranging from 80 to 102, found that touching and caressing were more common than intercourse, but no less enjoyable (Archives of Sexual Behavior, 1988).

What's Normal

Physical changes can make elderly sexual experiences different from those of youth (see "Sex Ed for Adults," p. 35). For women, the first sign of change is linked to menopause, which can lower desire and make intercourse uncomfortable, but frequency and lubricating products help. "The old adage 'use it or lose if applies to human sexuality," Kamhi says. "Women who continue to experience sexual stimulation later in life have fewer problems with vaginal dryness and thinning." As an alternative to prescription estrogen products--which can help with dryness but may have negative side effects--look for apricot and almond oils or naturally derived progesterone creams, all of which can be found in natural products stores.

Although men don't go through abrupt hormonal changes, their hormone levels do decline. Some call this stage andropause, Kamhi says, which can slow sexual response time. Just as for women, it may take longer, but the experience can be just as pleasurable.

Some medications, such as antihistamines, acid-blocking drugs and especially medicines for high blood pressure and depression, can lower sexual desire. Therefore, don't hesitate to ask your doctor whether a prescription could affect sexual function.

Mind-Body Connection