6 Ways Senior Men Can Have Great Sex

Aging brings about physical changes that can impact a man's sexual function and enjoyment. Testosterone levels decline, and many men need more stimulation to achieve an erection or fail. Conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, dementia and heart disease can affect sexual function and satisfaction. However, many of these conditions, including ED and low testosterone, can be managed with medication and other treatments.

While you may get anxious and frustrated from these physiological changes and conditions, remember that getting older does not mean the end of your sex life, as many seniors enjoy sex regularly. According to research from Archives of Sexual Behavior, 54 percent of men over age 70 are still sexually active.

The key is to adjust your mindset and expectations. Many men have spent a lifetime focused solely on the physical aspects of sex, so when ED and low sex drive occur, they cause anxiety and frustration. One way to overcome this is to focus less on penetration and more on foreplay and manual stimulation with your partner. Thinking about intimacy instead of physical performance can do a lot for your overall sexual satisfaction.

Here are more tips for better sex in your golden years.

Let communication pave the way

Open communication with your partner is essential to any healthy sexual relationship. As you age, things change. You may be unable to perform certain actions in the bedroom you used to, and this requires patience and understanding. By maintaining an open line of communication, you and your partner will be able to make adjustments as changes caused by aging occur. Talking and supporting each other in this way may create a new level of intimacy.

Change your routine

Small changes can make a big difference in your sex life. Try having sex at a different time of the day when you have more energy, such as in the morning after a good night's sleep. It takes longer for many senior men to get sexually aroused. You may want to make an effort to set the mood and spend more time on foreplay. Don't overlook small, intimate acts such as touching and kissing.

Go on dates

Try to experience something new with your partner. An impromptu day trip to a place you've never been could inspire new conversations and feelings. Doing something different and spontaneous together brings excitement and intimacy to the relationship. Romance and new experiences can keep you stimulated mentally, physically and emotionally.

Drop some pounds

Overweight or obese men are more likely to have high blood pressure, high cholesterol and high blood sugar. These conditions can lead to cardiovascular issues, which may contribute to ED. Maintaining a healthy weight through regular exercise and a healthy diet will reduce the likelihood you develop these conditions.

Avoid smoking and excessive drinking

If you are having trouble getting or keeping an erection, smoking and drinking could be the root of the problem. Tobacco and alcohol use can limit the amount of blood that flows to the penis. These are two notoriously difficult habits to beat, particularly if you have an addiction, but countless groups can help, and the results of quitting will benefit not only your sex life but your overall health as well.

Get comfy

If arthritis or chronic pain is making sex less enjoyable for you, try a different position that's more comfortable or use pillows for support. If you suffer from lower back pain, having sex side-by-side instead of in the missionary position may be more comfortable. Taking over-the-counter pain medications or a warm bath may help you relax before having sex.

If you are experiencing excessive pain or other symptoms negatively impacting your sex life, talk with your doctor as soon as you can. You may also want to consider working with a licensed sex therapist. A therapist can help you and your partner address specific concerns. Remember millions of men have enjoyable and fulfilling sex lives into their 70s and beyond. With the right treatment and adjustments, you can as well.