New research by Replens has found that half (48%) of UK adults over 60 feel more confident in their sexual relationships than ever before, with one in five (19%) revealing they are much more confident now than when they were younger, with many respondents enjoying an active sex life into their 60s and beyond.
The Flames of Sex and Intimacy survey quizzed 1200 people aged 60 and above about their sex lives. The report discovered that:
- 39% of adults aged 60 or over say sex continues to be an important part of their relationships
- 45% say they are more at ease with sex and intimacy with the passing years, with 22% describing themselves as much more at ease
Responding to the results of the survey, sex and relationships expert Tracey Cox said; “The second half of your life isn’t second best. Rip up the memo that says you’re meant to become sexless, invisible and dull when you hit your 60s.
“Regular sex is what will keep you in peak condition – physically and emotionally. Sex boosts our immune systems, reduces stress and improves memory. Regular sex brings pleasure into our lives and increases production of oxytocin, the cuddle hormone, promoting trust, intimacy and bonding.
“It makes us feel less depressed and more positive generally, enhancing self-esteem and confidence.”
Intimacy is for us, not just the young
More than half (53%) of those surveyed believe society has a negative view of people of their age enjoying sex and intimacy, while 65% say they feel underrepresented in advertising, something which Replens™ hopes to tackle with its current Sex Never Gets Old advertising campaign**, which features a diverse group of older people, with a range of ethnicities, ages and sexualities, within beautiful, emotional portraits of couples.
“Who decided sex was only for the young? The type of sex you have when you’re older might not look like the sex you had in your 20’s but it’s just as enjoyable. Young sex isn’t better sex, it’s just different sex. Lots of older couples rate sex as more satisfying as they get older.”
Cox, former co-host on BBC’s Would Like to Meet and Channel 4’s Sex Inspectors, articulates what many of us have already come to realise: “There’s a confidence that comes with age and experience. You worry less about what people think, you know your body and your sexual triggers and you’re not afraid to ask for what you want.
“The older you are, the less likely you are to worry your partner might judge you for asking for something a little risqué. Lots of mid-lifers are more sexually adventurous than they’ve ever been. Sex and intimacy keep you young. Couples who have regular sex feel more connected to their partner and rate their relationship happiness much higher than couples who don’t. It keeps us happy, it keeps us close, why on earth would we want to let sex or intimacy disappear from our lives?”
Replens is the clinically tested, number one vaginal moisturiser GP recommended brand* to relieve vaginal dryness, a condition which can be seen as an inhibitor to sexual intimacy post menopause. Through the Flames of Sex & Intimacy Survey, Replens hopes to raise awareness and encourage positive engagement in the women’s intimate health category.
Rossana Doldi, Head of Healthcare at Church & Dwight UK Ltd, says “Our research has found that many people continue to enjoy an active and fulfilling sex life after the age of 60. Through this research we hope to give people the confidence to view their older selves more positively and inspire a long-lasting sex life!”
If you want to find out more about the report and look at products that can help support you visit Replens.
About the Author / 50connect Editor
