Sex doesn’t stop but it’s difficult to talk about
One in four over-65s in Scotland haven't changed their sexual lifestyle despite their age, a new survey reveals. But one third (33 per cent) feel they can't talk to their partner about sex, while over two thirds (70 per cent) have never sought sexual health advice.
The online poll was commissioned by Age Scotland partner Age UK to highlight the role of sex and sexual health in later life, and to help dispel some of the stereotypes and taboos around older people and sexual relationships. With a quarter (25 per cent in Scotland, 24 across the UK) of those polled stating that age hasn't affected their sex lives, the survey shows that sex remains important, regardless of age.
The survey highlights the extent to which sex remains an important part of our later years, with over two thirds (70 per cent in Scotland compared with 62 across the UK) of over-65s in the survey saying that they are currently enjoying a fulfilling sex life. What's more, a wish to keep the spark alive came through in the findings, as one in eight (11 per cent in Scotland) said they would like to try new things with their partner. One in five (20 per cent in Scotland against an 18 per cent UK average) want to be more sexually active - rising to over a quarter (27 per cent) amongst men. However, Scots over-65s polled appear more reticent to embark on a new sexual relationship (8 per cent UK average against 6 per cent in Scotland).
Despite being keen to enjoy a fulfilling sex life in later years, the survey revealed that many of the older generation find it difficult to talk to partners or health workers about sex. In Scotland one third (33 per cent against a UK average of 28 per cent) feel they can't talk to their partner, with women finding it harder to disclose their feelings than men. Meanwhile just 19 per cent (17 per cent UK average) feel comfortable speaking to health workers. Reasons behind the silence included embarrassment and not knowing how to initiate the conversation.
Age Scotland spokesperson Lindsay Scott said: "This survey shows that having a healthy sex life is important to us regardless of our age. However, we also found that many older people may find it hard to speak up about sex, be it to their partner, friends or healthcare professionals.
"We believe it is important to seek out information and advice on sex - whatever your age. Some people's knowledge will be based on guidance received when they were first sexually active a number of years ago - and it's vital that those in later life have access to relevant, up-to-date information.
"The changes that many people face as we age, such as the menopause or finding our joints become less supple, don't necessarily mean our sex life has to stop. The right information and advice will help people in later life to keep sexually active and healthy for as long as desired."
About the poll
A total of 2,000 UK adults over 65 (198 in Scotland), and 2,000 UK adults under 50 (198 in Scotland), were surveyed via an online poll. The survey was carried out by Vision Critical in November 2012.
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