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A Sixty and Me report describes intimacy and sexual expression as options for older adults, including people who are single or no longer interested in sex. It cites research associating sexual activity and emotional closeness with greater enjoyment of life, but says the evidence does not show that sex causes better health or longer life.
Sixty and Me has published guidance on how people over 60 can approach intimacy and sexuality as part of well-being, while emphasizing that sex is not required for healthy aging. The report points to a 2019 study of older adults in England that associated sexual activity and emotional closeness with greater enjoyment of life, but cautions that the finding does not prove sex improves health or extends life.
The report uses intimacy broadly: it can include holding hands, kissing, affectionate touch or private conversation, as well as sexual activity. It says older adults can define what feels meaningful and comfortable for them, whether partnered, single, sexually active or not interested in sex. The National Institute on Aging is cited as recognizing that sexuality and intimacy can take different forms.
It also addresses physical changes after menopause. Lower estrogen levels can contribute to vaginal dryness and changes in tissue elasticity, which may make sexual activity uncomfortable. The Menopause Society is cited for distinguishing lubricants, used to reduce friction during sexual activity, from vaginal moisturizers, used regularly for ongoing dryness. The report advises discussing persistent pain, bleeding or troublesome dryness with a healthcare professional; it notes that treatment options, including low-dose vaginal estrogen, may depend on a person’s medical history.
For people exploring sex alone, the report describes masturbation as one possible way to learn what feels comfortable, and cites the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists as including it among options for exploring sexual pleasure. It says penetration is not necessary, and that people need not pursue sexual activity if they do not want to. For sex with a new partner, it recommends discussing condoms and STI testing, since menopause does not eliminate the risk of sexually transmitted infections.
Well-Being Without a Sexual Requirement
The report broadens discussion of healthy aging beyond exercise, food and sleep by including affection, pleasure and connection. That framing may help readers recognize that intimacy can be part of a fulfilling life without treating it as a health target everyone must meet. A person’s preferences can change with health, relationships, bereavement, caregiving responsibilities or simply personal choice.
Its evidence caveat matters. The reported link between sexual activity, emotional closeness and enjoyment of life is an association, not proof of cause. The report says healthier people may find it easier to remain sexually active, and relationship quality may also matter. It warns against promises that sex or masturbation prevent cognitive decline, strengthen immunity or guarantee longevity. Readers can value pleasure and closeness on their own terms without assuming they will produce specific medical outcomes.
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Comfort and Choice After Menopause
The supplied report describes several possible routes to intimacy rather than a single standard. Partners may talk about what feels good now and make time for closeness; someone without a partner may choose private sexual expression, or none at all. Its suggested starting point is a manageable step, such as raising a concern with a partner or asking a clinician about discomfort.
Physical comfort can call for practical adjustments, including lubrication, taking more time for arousal, or choosing positions that protect sore joints. The report advises stopping if an activity hurts and seeking professional guidance for persistent symptoms. It also cautions that self-stimulation alone should not be relied on to treat menopause-related tissue changes. These are general suggestions in the source report, not individualized medical advice.
“Lubricants reduce friction during sexual activity, while vaginal moisturizers are used regularly to help with ongoing dryness.”
— The Menopause Society, as cited by Sixty and Me
What the Research Cannot Establish
The supplied source does not provide the 2019 study’s title, sample size, detailed methods or effect estimates, so those details cannot be assessed from the material provided. It reports an association with enjoyment of life, not evidence that sexual activity causes improved health, prevents illness or prolongs life. The relative influence of health status, relationship quality and other factors is not specified.
The report also does not give individualized treatment guidance. Whether a particular symptom needs evaluation or whether a treatment is suitable depends on a person’s circumstances and medical history. People experiencing persistent pain, bleeding or troublesome dryness are advised to speak with a qualified healthcare professional.
Practical Steps and Clinical Questions
The report offers no announced follow-up event or new study; its guidance is to take a step only if it suits the individual. That could mean talking with a partner about affection, asking a healthcare professional about discomfort, or exploring personal preferences privately. A person who is not interested in sex does not need to make it a goal.
Readers considering a new partner can discuss condoms and STI testing. Those troubled by changes in desire may ask a clinician whether medication, illness, stress or relationship concerns could be contributing. The broader message is to keep intimacy voluntary and comfortable, while continuing other practices that support health, such as movement, adequate sleep and supportive relationships.
Key Questions
Does the report say sex makes people live longer?
No. It cites research associating sexual activity and emotional closeness with greater enjoyment of life, but says that association does not show that sex causes better health or adds years to life.
Does intimacy have to include intercourse?
No. The report includes holding hands, kissing, affectionate touch and conversation as forms of intimacy. It also says penetration is optional and that sexual activity is not an obligation.
What does the report suggest about menopause-related dryness?
It distinguishes lubricants, which reduce friction during sexual activity, from vaginal moisturizers, which are used regularly for ongoing dryness. Persistent pain, bleeding or troublesome dryness should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
Can people over 60 still be at risk of sexually transmitted infections?
Yes. The report says menopause does not remove STI risk and recommends discussing condoms and testing with a new partner.
Source: rss
