SEX remains an essential activity for the elderly, and can extend lifespans, but it needs to be part of a total human experience to be enjoyed in advanced years, a medical conference was told on Friday. Biological changes that come with ageing as well as disease, depression and stress can affect sexual performance and satisfaction, experts told the Singapore General Hospital’s annual scientific meeting. But they said it would be a misconception to think sexuality was unimportant for the elderly. “In reality, most older people can and do enjoy continued sexual interest, function and satisfaction said Calvin Fones, of the department of psychological medicine at the National University Hospital. Fones said research has shown an association between the “preservation of sexual activity and longevity.” Intimacy with one’s partner, trust and social bonding could also serve as “protective factors against morbidity and mortality” as disease and aging take their course, he said. – AFP
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