Intimacy and Aging

Why might an older person be hesitant to discuss their physical changes with their partner or doctor?

What may contribute to a lack of physical intimacy in older people?

What is a common result of a discrepancy in expectations between partners?

What is a common change in older couples' relationships?

What is a possible reason why sexual intercourse may become less frequent or stop in older couples?

What is the basis of intimacy between two people?

Which of the following is a common age-related barrier to intimacy?

Which disorders can cause erectile dysfunction?

How can caregiving affect intimacy?

What can certain medications cause in older people?

What is a common age-related change that affects intimacy?

What is a result of vaginal atrophy?

What does not change with age in terms of intimacy?

Intimacy is a feeling of closeness shared between two people, based on knowledge, familiarity, and emotional, social, and physical connections.
Physical intimacy includes touching, cuddling, and sexual intercourse, and is not inappropriate at any age.
The desire for intimacy does not decrease with age, but age-related disorders and emotional changes can interfere with maintaining intimacy.

Loss of a partner is the most common age-related barrier to intimacy.
Various disorders, such as vascular disorders, diabetes, and arthritis, can cause physical limitations and discomfort, making intimacy difficult.
Cognitive impairment and dementia can complicate issues of consent and comfort with intimacy.
Medications can cause problems affecting intimacy, such as erectile dysfunction or a reduced sex drive.
Age-related changes, such as decreased sex hormone levels, can cause physical discomfort and difficulties.

Older people may be reluctant to discuss changes in their body or intimacy with their partner or doctor.
A discrepancy in expectations between partners can lead to differences in desired physical expressions of intimacy.
Lack of privacy, such as living with family members or in a residential care facility, can limit opportunities for physical intimacy.
Many couples may shift to other forms of intimacy, such as touching, massaging, or verbal expressions of affection, as they age.