With the increase in human lifespan and the advancement of medical technology, more and more people can expect to live a full and meaningful life after the age of 60. However, as they get older, some people may begin to have doubts about the continuity of their married life. They may ask: Can we still live a "married life" after the age of 60? This is a question that involves physical, psychological and social factors, so let's explore it together.
1. After the age of 60, can you still live a "married life"?
Physiological factors
As we age, the human body undergoes a series of physiological changes, including changes in hormone levels, decreased sexual organ function, etc. According to a study by the American Society of Sexology, about 52 percent of men between the ages of 60 and 69 and about 31 percent of women have had sex in the past year. Although libido and performance may diminish with age, many couples can still maintain their sex life through communication, understanding, and appropriate medical help.
Some medical studies have shown that for some men, hormone replacement therapy, erectile function medications, and a healthy lifestyle such as exercise and a healthy diet can help improve their sexual function. For women, hormone therapy, water-based lubricants, and sex education can also help them maintain a healthy sex life after menopause.
Psychological factors
In addition to physiological factors, psychological factors can also affect the quality of life as a couple. As couples get older, the tacit understanding, trust, and emotional connection between couples may become more important. Communication and understanding between couples becomes especially important in order to overcome the physical and emotional changes that come with age.
Some studies have shown a strong link between a happy marital relationship and a healthy sex life. Intimacy between couples can promote physical and mental health and reduce the occurrence of depression and anxiety. Therefore, even after old age, investing in the emotions and time of the couple's relationship is still very valuable.
Social factors
In addition to factors at the personal level, social factors can also affect the quality of life as a couple. For many older couples, lifestyle changes may occur after retirement, which may give them more time and opportunities to enjoy each other's company. At the same time, the attitudes of families and society towards the sexual life of the elderly are also changing, and more and more people are beginning to accept that the elderly also have the right and need to enjoy a healthy sex life.
2. How many times a week is the "married life" of the elderly?
The frequency of "conjugal life" for older people varies from person to person, and there is no fixed standard. The frequency of "married life" is influenced by a variety of factors, including the individual's health, sexual desire, hormone levels, lifestyle, and relationship between husband and wife.
Some studies suggest that the frequency of "conjugal life" may decrease for many couples as they age, but that doesn't mean it will disappear completely. A survey in the United States found that about 52 percent of men between the ages of 60 and 69 and about 31 percent of women had "married life" in the past year, suggesting that many older adults are still sexually active.
When deciding on the frequency of "conjugal life", the most important thing is the comfort and desire of both spouses. Couples should communicate openly and honestly with each other and work together to decide how often a "couple life" is right for them. For some older couples, once a week or less "conjugal life" may be sufficient, while for others, it may be more frequent. It is important to understand and respect each other's needs and desires, and not to be bound by outside pressures or standards.
3. What should the elderly pay attention to in their "married life"?
There are a few aspects that older people need to pay special attention to in their "married life" to ensure their health and safety:
1. Health status: Older people should consider their overall health before starting or restarting their "married life". If there are any2 chronic diseases (such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension, etc.), it is best to consult a doctor beforehand and make sure that sexual activity does not adversely affect health.
2. Drug effects: Some older people may be taking medications, and some of these drugs may affect sexual function or "married life". For example, certain medications may cause erectile dysfunction or decreased libido. Older adults should be aware of the side effects of the medications they are taking and discuss possible alternatives with their doctor if necessary.
3. Sexual health: Despite the physiological changes that age can cause, sexual health is still important. Older adults should continue to have sexual health check-ups, including regular check-ups for the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and follow safe sex principles, such as using contraception and getting regular sexual health check-ups.
4. Communication and understanding: Open and honest communication between couples is crucial. Older couples should understand each other's needs and desires and respect each other's boundaries. If one of the partners has any discomfort or concern, they should communicate with their partner in a timely manner and seek a solution.
5. Comfort and desire: Everyone's needs and preferences for "married life" are different, and the elderly should decide the frequency and mode of "married life" according to their comfort and desires. It is important to respect each other's wishes and ensure that sexual activity is based on the wishes and consent of both parties.
conclusion
After the age of 60, the continuity of a couple's life may face some challenges, but that doesn't mean it doesn't exist. By understanding and coping with physical, psychological, and social factors, many couples can still maintain a healthy and fulfilling sex life. The key lies in communication, understanding and support between couples, as well as a positive attitude towards life and appropriate medical assistance. Couples who have gone through the years together should support each other, face the changes brought about by age together, and continue to enjoy the beauty of life in each other's company.
Resources:
[1] "Can the elderly still have sex?To be honest: there is still a big difference between having and not having sex", TCM Physician Zhang.2023-06-17
[2] "Doctor's Repeated Advice: When the Elderly Have Sex with Each Other, Don't Be Careless About These 5 Things, Otherwise You May Get into Trouble".TCM Dr. Wei.2023-05-18