Seniors’ sexual health: Separating the myths from facts

February 14, 2024
Myths abound about seniors, sex and intimacy. Sexual health is individually defined and goes beyond the bedroom: if it leads to intimacy and enriches both parties, it’s wholesome.

It’s Valentine’s Day, and many older adults and seniors are enjoying sex just as much—and sometimes more—than younger people. But myths and misconceptions about sex and aging abound. These include:

  • Older adults are too old and frail to have sex
  • Older people don’t want to discuss their sexuality with professionals
  • Sex is unimportant or over and done with when a person is older
  • Sexual prowess and desire wane with age
  • Menopause is the death of a woman’s sexuality
  • Masturbation is an immature activity of young people. Older people don’t masturbate.
  • Hysterectomies cause a physical disability that results in the inability to function sexually

Stories@IH

Read our latest stories

3 Minute Read
Stories, Community & Culture

Deb is an introspective leader who values empowering others to express themselves. After a 33-year career at IH, she’s looking forward to her retirement.

4 Minute Read
Stories, Community & Culture
3 Minute Read
Community & Culture

Brooke loves her job as an ultrasound technician not only because of what she gets to do, but because of the team she works with at Royal Inland Hospital.

8 Minute Read
Community & Culture, Health & Wellness

Interview with Wilfred Barnes, a syilx/ Indigenous Elder & syilx knowledge / nsyilxcn language educator and consultant, about the work and experiences with IH

3 Minute Read
Community & Culture, Health & Wellness

While breastfeeding is natural, it’s not always easy and can take time, patience and support. There are many caring people who can help you on your journey.

5 Minute Read
Health & Wellness

This initiative is dedicated to enhancing health and wellness outcomes for Métis people through collaboration and cultural integration.

STAY CONNECTED

Receive news and alert posts, and Stories@IH blog posts, right to your inbox!

mail