Aging and Sex

Aging and Sex

Almost all scientific explanations for aging are based on the observations of objects around us. The process is basically attributed to the principle that an individual, just like any animal and non-living, complex engines, tends to deteriorate or age as years pass by. Aging among humans have two types- the biological and chronological processes. According to experts, chronological aging pertains to the years you have been living while biological aging shows how much your body changes as compared to how you were from the past years as well as to other people who are of the same age as you. Since the biological process is what matters most in aging, you can now have more control over your health as it is now possible to prolong or slow down biological maturity by simply adhering to the currently available medical breakthroughs that can stop the aging process.

Theories in Aging

Theories and medical studies related to aging are exhaustively expounded so as to help people understand the principles of the process. One of the basic theories that explain why we change as we age is the genetic explanation. Early scientists claim that our biological aging processes are coded in our genes. The theory clearly explains that environmental factors can further affect our aging periods for pollutants can eventually degrade cell formations in our body. The flaw in this theory, however, is seen on the fact that since aging is basically mapped on our genes, we cannot do anything about it. As there are numerous legal and safe ways to keep our bodies healthy and younger looking, the theory is generally disregarded by today’s medical experts.

Meanwhile, stress is another prime factor that can affect the aging process. Known as the most complex theory on aging, stress apparently affects the growth and aging glands inside our bodies, particularly the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is considered the “Boss of all Glands” since it controls the hormonal release processes of all other glands in the body. When we experience too much stress, this gland will become less accurate, thus, leading to imbalanced hormonal level within our bodies and resulting to more damaged tissues.

Moreover, the free radical theory is probably the most widely accepted explanation on aging. Free radicals, or loose highly reactive body chemicals, are basically proven to be the main cause of tissue damage when over-exposed with these chemicals. While free radicals have a number of usages in the body, too much of these bodily chemicals can damage our cells and tissues.

Free radicals have adverse effects inside the body for these chemicals are highly reactive. These chemicals contain extra electrons that enable them to absorb electrons of other molecules. As the free radicals repeatedly do this, they eventually wear out the cells in our bodies as well as create new chemicals on the process. As the cells in our bodies wear out, we then experience the early signs of aging.

Effects of Aging on Sex

As explained earlier, we experience many changes as we age and these changes can be both psychological and physical. Unfortunately, our sexual vigor is among the things that inevitably changes as we get older. During our young age, we have a lot of energy for this activity, thus, enjoying its benefits and gaining experiences from it. But as we age, we tend to lose interest or have less energy for sex.

Hormonal changes are considered normal signs of aging. These changes, however, can significantly affect the levels of our sexual drive. As for men, testosterone production decreases due to aging and health conditions. The same goes for aging women since studies show that most females who are on the prime of their age no longer have the strong sexual vigor they once have when they are still young.

On the other hand, physical changes are not the only factor that can affect the sexuality of aging adults. The changes in our surroundings and environment can also alter the impact of sex on aging individuals. The values and concepts of sex invariably change during the various stages of our lives. If you are already in your fifties or sixties, you will see that the sexual beliefs and values of your time are very different as compared to the experiences and principles of the younger generation. Hence, physical changes and social influences can essentially affect the sexual drive of every aging individual.

How to Maintain Sexual Drive


Learning the psychology of sex can also help you and your partner have a normal and satisfying sexual relationship. As an aging adult, you need to consider various factors that can affect you and your partner’s sexual activities. These considerations include proper medications, stable medical conditions, adequate foreplay, and appropriate positions. When these factors are seriously considered by aging adults who are experiencing problems with sex, they will definitely experience improvements on their sexual activities and relationships.

Overall, aging is indeed one of the components of life that we cannot prevent from happening. Although it is an inevitable process, aging is still a wonderful natural way of life that reminds us that we are alive and by far gained a lot of experiences from our existence. Although aging can be prolonged and even prevented, we will, one way or the other, still invariably experience the effects of aging, particularly in sex. To get passed this stage is as easy as exercising daily to maintain a healthy body. Engaging in a regular sexual activity will surely help your body maintain its sexual vigor even as you age.