Sex never GETS OLD! Getting physical is not just a young person's game

Our children and grandchildren hate us talking about it, and it may come as a surprise to them, but (shock, horror!) when it comes to sex, we don't just stop as we get older!

-  JULIET MURPHY 

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.