One of the inevitable realities of the human body is the
fact we age. Every one of us will need
to address the impact of aging on our sexuality. The cultural messages about aging and
sexuality was briefly highlighted in the cultural and identity section. Two
classic examples are the belief that “Old people are alone.” “Sex is only for
the young.” As you build your recovery, it is important to address the cultural
messages you have heard about aging.
This can be done by examining each section in the workbook with the
questions, “What is the impact of aging on _____(fill in the blank). “What is the relationship between
__________(fill in the blank), aging, and my chemical use.” One
example of this relationship is that we might use chemicals as a way to cope
with the loneliness we feel as we age.
It is also important to address the physical consequences of
aging on the physical body and the impact on sexuality. The range in changes that occur in the body
as we age are significant. A few of
these changes are listed simply to get you started in your journey.
The intensity of the sexual response cycle
changes as we age. It may take longer to
get aroused. For both men and women, the intensity of arousal can slowly
decrease as we get older. The intensity
of the orgasm may lesson. The refractory period between orgasms increases.
Men and women struggle with changes to our
genitals. Women might not create enough
lubrication for penetration. Men often loose intensity in erections.
Hormonal changes for both men and women
occur. Menopause was briefly highlighted
in the section on Women’s Sexuality.
Men’s level of testosterone slowly decreases over time.
Our body changes, as compared to the unrealistic
ideal images of a man or woman.
Assignment
Review your responses to the messages you have about aging
from the section on Cultural Identity (page).
Describe 2-3 examples where your sexual expression has
changed as a result of aging.
Describe 2-3 sexual health concerns you have as you grow
older.
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