ABOUT TWO YEARS ago, The Sun newspaper revealed Naomi Campbell had an unlikely relationship with One Direction star Liam Payne and that they enjoyed mind-blowing sex. It made headline news because she was significantly older than him. And all I could think was, so!
I don't think that anyone would deny that when you feel fit and healthy, you feel good about yourself and your body and feel sexy – whatever physical age you are. It is a common assumption that if you are in your 40s, 50s or 60s (or more!), sex is no longer pivotal in your life. This couldn't be further from the truth!' What is clear from recent research is that those over 50 have the most adventurous sex of their lives!
While it is a fact that testosterone does decline with age, it is not necessarily true that everyone's libido also decreases. A study found that some men with low testosterone had very high libidos and vice versa. 10% reported their libido had increased after hitting 50.
Men and women in this age bracket are challenging the stereotype – 50 is no longer "too old" - to travel, change careers, or experiment in the bedroom. Younger people couldn't be more wrong when they assume their parents are no longer 'doing it. Over 50s who date are more likely to have sex on the first date, although most will stick to the '3 date rule.
What is more, we become more comfortable in our skin – something that inevitably happens in 'middle age' – and this means we have fewer inhibitions and know what we like and want. We have more time to spend at leisure and can afford to spend more time relaxing with each other's bodies rather than going for a quick 'bonk' before lights out. The actual act for over 50s is an average of 25 minutes long.
With all the experience of past sexual conquests and disasters, we understand that the effort to please and be pleased is worth the reward, so we become less afraid to ask to be treated in a particular way. Although missionary remains the most popular position, doggy, oral, and 69 follow closely behind. More mature partners tend to communicate more effectively, are willing to experiment, and have learnt to talk and laugh about their sexual adventures, especially when things don't go quite right!
A downside of all this fun is that a 'Safe Sex' survey back in 2012 found that 8 out of 10 over 50s had never tested for STIs. Half of that number also admitted that they never use protection. Many men will have had vasectomies or rely on a lower sperm count, so they aren't so concerned about protection. Similarly, women after menopause are more relaxed when it comes to 'taking precautions. It is no surprise that STI rates continue to rise in this sector.
That said, sex is raising the quality of life for those 50-plus, and it remains a vital part of a good relationship, regardless of age. The 50-plus 'singles' are likely to continue seeking sexual partners for as long as they are physically able, and why shouldn't the bedroom adventures continue?
