Sexuality in Older Adults
Just like an exercise program or any routine activity, it is never too late for any person to start being sexually active. Having sex regularly is the most effective strategy to sustain sexual capacity. Older individuals who have remained celibate for decades can realize sexual satisfaction in new intimate relationships. There are several considerations, however, that can be employed to make the process more effective, for example, prolonged foreplay and direct contact with the sexual organs of the individuals. There are therefore no health risks known of the elderly engaging in sexual behavior if the various health regulations are observed for example engaging in moderate alcohol drinking, following the abstinence duration as advised by the doctor, in the case of individuals with hypertension, and the avoidance of certain medication that reduce an individual’s sex drive(National Institute on Aging, n.d.). In this case, for example, it is possible that the wife began cheating in the relationship after getting new sexual experience with another sexual partner that restored her sexual desires. She kept her sexual life active by regularly engaging in sexual intercourse with her cheating partner and thus become more and more satisfied.
Firstly, the spouse must first identify what it is that has led to the dramatic loss in sexual satisfaction is. It is also essential to explain to my client that what they are going through is normal, and I will recommend a couple’s therapy so that their partner is not briefed about the situation. It is important for the spouse to know so that they don’t resort to cheating behind the person’s back. By briefing the other spouse about the situation during the couple’s therapy, I will then urge them to be patient with each other until the health concern is resolved. I will have to liaise with other medical professions to get the appropriate information on whether it is the medications that are affecting my client’s sexual life or other factors such as pain acute symptoms (Staff, 2017). If the loss of sexual satisfaction comers from medicines, for example, I will advise my clients to use other strategies such as prolonged foreplay or setting of the mood through the use of candle lights or music. I will, however, discourage them from doing things like discontinuation of the prescription as it may have adverse implications on their physical health. I will also discourage them from excessive alcohol intake as it may significantly decrease their sexual performance.