Whatever the problem may be,
seek out help or advice to help regain the intimacy you may have lost.
Intimacy and sexuality do not have to be lost treasures as we age.
It is true that as health deteriorates, the loss of loved ones, and other
factors can play a great role in the decrease of intimacy and sexual encounters.
Normal aging and some illnesses can bring changes that alter sexual responses.
After the Attack
A concern for many is how to behave sexually
after suffering from a heart attack. For some, taking Nitroglycerin
shortly before making love prevents chest pain. Most often, if a
person tolerates a stress test that increases their heart rate, they can
safely have sexual intercourse. To lessen the fear,
research has shown that only 1% of sudden coronary deaths occur during
intercourse, and most often these occurred in extramarital affairs.
Effect of Drugs
Often, medicines that many older people
take may further hinder their sex lives. Anticholinergic
agents (Atropine) and antipsychotics such as Thorazine or Haldol may
impair male sexual function. Some antihypertensive medicines may
cause impotence. Problems with sexual function may also occur with certain
antidepressant medicines. Antianxiety drugs such as Valium or Xanax
can inhibit sex drive for both men and women.
Do not just assume that decreased sexual activity
is inevitable with aging. Next time you are given a new drug or are
faced with surgery, you should ask your physician about side effects or
precautions for resuming your sex life.
Do Not Give Up - Adapt!
Sometimes when upsetting changes happen,
couples abandon their sex lives rather than seeking out options to
adapt. Adaptation may mean modifying how you make love or seeking
outside advice on how to cope. More and more older people are seeking
the help of a certified sex therapist. Whatever the problem may be,
seek out help or advice to help regain the intimacy you may have lost.
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