The ability to express intimate and sexual behavior increases general health and quality of life for all people, including older adults, which is a well-known fact in sexuality research. With intimacy and sexuality being on a continuum, this means that by having close connections with others or having a great sex life, a person has higher chances of having multiple health benefits.
The general health benefits of sexual expression extend to physical and psychological aspects of life. One of the essential benefits is improved well-being and the connection to longevity. Among the physical benefits of sexual expression are improved cardiovascular health, decreased sensitivity to pain, and increased relaxation. A couple of the psychological health benefits of sexual expression include reduced chances of clinical depression and an increased sense of self-esteem.
Considering the multiple benefits of a close and intimate relationship for older adults, professionals should keep an open mind and ask older adults about intimate relationships. For professionals to identify the sexual need of their older clients and support older adults in improving their physical and psychological health, they need to be proactive. Including sexuality and aging in medical professionals’ curriculums will help them be proactive and improve the well-being of the older adults they serve.
