David Samadi, MD - Blog | Prostate Health, Prostate Cancer & Generic Health Articles by Dr. David Samadi - SamadiMD.com|

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How older men can have a healthy, enjoyable sex life

Men should not think for a minute that just because they reach a certain age, their sex life ends.  Granted, sexual issues from erectile dysfunction to premature ejaculation can happen but your sexual side does not have to suffer for long.  It is true that sex may not be same as it was in your younger days – in fact it could actually be better.  The good news is men can continue to enjoy an active, satisfying sex life well into old age.

As men age, maintaining sexual health and intimacy should be an important priority.  Men who take care of themselves, confront any sexual problems right away and have open communication with their partner are more likely to have a long, healthy and enjoyable sex life. 

·      Keep open communication with your partner

Freely communicating with your partner on all issues, including sex, is vital to a healthy, strong relationship.  Face facts that as we age, things change. When both partners can be patient, understanding, and find humor in sexual situations, it makes the lines of communication that much more open.  Never be afraid to express your needs, desires or concerns regarding sex.  Doing so often brings couples closer making intimacy that much more attainable.

·      Sex is not just about intercourse

Sure, intercourse is the home run of sex but it’s not the only way to enjoy intimacy.  Passionate kissing, exploring each other’s bodies or giving an erotic massage can be perfectly rewarding to both partners.  If a man’s manhood is not quite working up to par one night, resorting to these intimate means of contact can be another way of expressing love.

·      Alcohol and smoking won’t help

Alcohol has often been used to help with relaxation and getting in the mood but for men, it can also be a surefire mood killer.  In addition to alcohol, smoking can also zap a man’s ability to achieve or maintain an erection.  Both substances alter the flow of blood limiting the amount directed to the penis.  Abstaining from both alcohol and smoking is the best solution for avoiding sexual difficulties.

·      Practice good health habits

Throughout our lives we should practice healthy habits such as eating nutritious food and maintaining a healthy body weight.  But reality sets in and very few of us are able to manage such a feat.  It’s never too late to start.  Choosing healthy foods and losing excess weight not only may help prevent sexual problems but can also prevent chronic health conditions of heart disease, high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes.

·      Keep sexually active

Practice makes perfect and so true when it comes to sex.  The longer a man goes without it, the more difficult it can be to become sexually active later.  Besides, studies have shown that the more active a man’s sex life is, the longer he may live.  Men should put this finding to the test to discover for themselves.

·      Always practice safe sex

Life expectancy has lengthened over the years for both women and men. Safe sex is always an issue that should be taken seriously for all sexually active people no matter what their age.  Even older adults can contract a STD or HIV particularly if they have multiple sex partners.  Unless a couple has been in a long term, monogamous relationship, never assume that just because you are older doesn’t mean sex is risk-free. The older a person becomes, the longer their sexual history extends.

·      Seek help from your doctor

 Doctors see and hear it all so use them for whenever a sexual concern arises.  Sexual problems can stem from various sources and for older men one could be their medications.  Having their doctor review medications, making adjustments where needed, can make a world of difference by helping revive a lackluster sex life.  Certain sexual issues such as erectile dysfunction can be directly treated with medications.