Sex and Dating After 50
Jun 30th, 2009 by Astrid Engels
It’s interesting how our perspective of sex and dating changes as we get older. Where once we shuddered at the though of our parents ‘doing it’, we now laugh at our younger naivete. The fact is that adults over 50 are just as sexually active as the younger generation.
That changing viewpoint is also true of internet dating and online dating sites. When you create an account and start searching for people your own age, you’ll be delighted with the number of people over 50 who are looking for the same thing you are; be it a date, a relationship or physical satisfaction.
I don’t know why that surprises us. It shouldn’t! We’re less inhibited now then when we were young; more adventurous about exploring new opportunities. I know that as I’ve matured I’ve gained so much confidence that I no longer worry too much about what other people think; I’m more concerned with what I think of myself.
Internet dating services have seen the over 50 crowd join their sites in record numbers, frequently out pacing the younger crowd as they embrace today’s matchmaking technology. However, don’t be in a rush to throw caution to the wind while you do so!
STD’s. Unfortunately, sexually transmitted diseases aren’t the domain of the young. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s stats from 2006 indicate that just under 30% of newly diagnosed AIDS cases presented in people over the age of 45. Proper precautions such as condoms should always be used to prevent the transmission of AIDS, herpes and other STD’s.
Pregnancy. A lot of women will have gone through menopause by the time they reach 50. But certainly not all. Remember, pregnancy is not an age discriminator! Just because the chances of becoming pregnant are far less than when you were 25, doesn’t mean it can’t happen. Men, this applies to you even more so. Men can father children into their 80’s and 90’s, so unless you want kids that are the same age as your grandchildren, use protection!
Sexual Attrativeness. Exuding sex appeal is not the domain of the young. Sure, smooth skin and firm bodies are attractive, but so is the older body of someone who oozes self confidence. Knowing who you are and what you like are both incredible aphrodisiacs.
Things change. Okay, so sex at 50 or 60 and beyond is not what it was when you were 20. But so what? Chances are it wasn’t that terrific in the first place what with all those insecurities! If you and your partner need some help in the form of lubricants or a little blue pill, there’s nothing wrong with that. Talk with your partner and experiment to see what works best for you. After all, everyone deserves to come (pardon the pun) to a mutually satisfying conclusion!
