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Why Should Aging Adults Maintain Good Sexual Health?

By , 9:00 am on

Being interested in sex isn’t a quality exclusive to younger adults. People over 65 also engage in sexual activity, which can provide them with many health benefits while boosting their overall quality of life. Victoria elderly care experts discuss a few of the reasons why aging adults should maintain good sexual health.

Relieves Pain 

When senior engage in sexual activity, they often feel better physically due to the hormone oxytocin, which is produced during sex. Oxytocin leads to an increase of positive endorphins into the body, which relieves pain immediately. High levels of oxytocin also reduce arthritis pain and headaches. 

Promotes Emotional Wellbeing

Being sexually active provides seniors with the intimacy and emotional connections they long for in their older years. The joy and playfulness experience of sex can lead to enhanced feelings of wellbeing. The stronger a senior’s emotional connections are, the lower the risk of feeling isolated, which prevents, depression, stress, and anxiety.

Boosts Cardiovascular Health 

The physical activity seniors required to engage in sex helps keep the blood flowing and the heart pumping, which is great for circulation and also reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease. Good sexual health can also strengthen a senior’s bones and muscles and increase flexibility, reducing the risk of slips and falls as a result.

Encourages Better Sleeping Patterns 

During sex, positive endorphins are released into the body. These endorphins fight off the cortisol hormones in the body. Cortisol is a stress hormone that is linked to fear, stress, and anxiety, all three of which can cause insomnia in the elderly. Maintaining good sexual health can help seniors have a better quality of sleep and prevent them from waking up in the middle of the night.

To learn more about elderly health and wellness, reach out to Victoria Home Care Assistance. We offer expertly trained caregivers who are available around the clock to assist with exercise, nutritious meal prep, bathing, grooming, and much more. In addition to hourly and 24-hour care, we also offer specialized Parkinson’s, post-stroke, and Alzheimer’s care Victoria, BC, seniors trust. For more information on our at-home care services, call one of our knowledgeable Care Managers at (250) 592-4881 to schedule a no-obligation consultation.