In fact, for many, sex becomes better with age. And yet, assumptions that sex is 'just for the young' mean doctors are dismissing the concerns of people in their 50s and 60s, experts have warned. Those in middle age fear seeking help for their sexual health, due to concerns of being judged as 'sex maniacs'.
But women, whatever their age, should not feel ashamed about their sexual desires. In the past three decades, divorce rates in the over-60s have doubled, leaving many pursuing passion later in life. Studies show sex three times a week can make women look up to 10 years younger, due to the boost of hormones triggered during intercourse. But with minimal risk of pregnancy, older, heterosexual people take more risks with their sexual health, and there has been a 20% rise in STIS like gonorrhoea and chlamydia in the over-65s.
Having an active, healthy sex life is good for blood pressure, muscle tone and the cardiovascular system, improves physical and mental health, and increases life expectancy. Talking about sex is one way to end the taboo surrounding sex and ageism. Woman speaks to one lady who debunks the myth that your sex life should retire when you do...
Liz Hoggard has put the spark back into her life
'I'M MORE AMBITIOUS FOR PLEASURE'
Liz Hoggard, 60, lives in London
Before lockdown, I was sent a phishing email by a man who said he had taken control of my computer and I needed to pay him a huge sum. I was terrified - until he said, 'And I have all your naked photos.' Then I howled with laughter. There are no naked pictures. My generation don't go in for such things. No photos, no flirty videos. We are far too cautious.
It turned out my online supermarket account had been hacked so it was a relief to know my prudishness had saved the day. But slightly sad.
Denne historien er fra February 06, 2023-utgaven av WOMAN - UK.
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Denne historien er fra February 06, 2023-utgaven av WOMAN - UK.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
NEVER too late
Catriona had regrets about the past - but perhaps it was time to embrace her future
How many calories are YOU eating at Christmas?
Lynsey Hope tracked what she ate over the festive period, with shocking results.
Cut festive spending
The average Brit expects to spend almost £600 on core Christmas-related products and activities this year, including food, gifts, decorations, socialising and travelling*.
My little MIRACLE
After a horrific blaze, Amanda Stephenson will never forget how lucky she is to still have her son
Why it's not too late to get a flu jab
WOMAN'S GP DR HELEN WALL ON HER TOPIC OF THE WEEK
Stop the season AGEING YOU
Take our youth-boosting quiz to find out how you can keep looking and feeling fabulous.
LOSE AN INCH by Christmas
Stride into shape with our simple walking plan
How to lower your cholesterol
ANNIE DEADMAN IS HERE TO HELP YOU, THE EASY WAY!
Why are we so obsessed with MOVING HOUSE?
With more homes on the market than last year, we investigate the nation's love of selling up
The ROYAL INSIDER
THE REASONS BEHIND THE SUSSEXES' NEW MOVE