Study Shows Benefits of Sex for Older Adults

A study published in Sexual Medicine indicates that sexual activity can improve well-being amongst older adults, measured through higher enjoyment of life scores, reports EurekAlert . The researchers analyzed data from 6,879 older adults, average age 65, living in Britain. Older men and women who reported any type of sexual activity in the previous 12 months had a higher life enjoyment score than those who were not sexually active. A greater frequency of kissing, petting, and fondling was associated with a higher enjoyment of life among women, as was feeling emotionally close to their partner during sex. However, older women did not have a significant association between sexual intercourse and enjoyment of life. Meanwhile, satisfaction with sex life and frequency of sexual intercourse was associated with greater enjoyment of life among older men. The results suggest sexual intercourse may be more important for older men than women in terms of promoting well-being, with women's enjoyment more closely tied to other sexual activities. "The findings of our study suggest that it may be beneficial for physicians to query geriatric beneficiaries about their sexual activity and offer help for sexual difficulties, such as problems with erections, as sexual activity helps older people live more fulfilling lives," says Anglia Ruskin University's Lee Smith.