Tips to help seniors enjoy a healthy sex life By Loretta Kaes Today's older adults are more active than ever before and continue to do many things they enjoyed when they were younger, including having intimate relationships and having and enjoying sex. There is little argument that love, affection and sexual intimacy contribute to healthy relationships and to the well-being of the partners. But along with the positive aspects, there are illnesses, physical conditions and medications that can affect sexual health, and irresponsible behavior can result in undesirable consequences, especially sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Centers for Disease Control (CDC) studies show that people in the 65 and older category are at significant risk for HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases. This fact seems to surprise many people, until they consider that slightly less than 50 percent of people in the United States who are 65 and older are single. Many single seniors find that they have more time than ever before for social activities. They meet new people by going to places where other older adults gather, such as senior centers, or by participating in activities such as adult education, travel groups, or exercise classes. No matter what your age, it is quite natural and never too late to start a new sexual relationship. If you find a new partner, remember to practice safe sex. Many older adults do not do this because they think they are no longer at risk for AIDS. Contrary to popular belief, AIDS is not only a young person's disease. People over 50 make up about 10 percent of AIDS cases in the United States. All sexually active people, no matter what their age, can contract STDs. Staying monogamous with your partner and practicing safe sex by using condoms is your best protection. Sexual health also refers to the many factors that impact sexual function. These include a variety of physical, mental and emotional factors that affect sexual performance. Many medical problems can interfere with how you respond sexually to another person. Chronic pain, surgery or illnesses that cause fatigue can make sexual activities more challenging or painful. Some commonly used medications can interfere with sexual function. Drugs that control high blood pressure can reduce desire and impair erection in men and lubrication in women. Antihistamines, antidepressants and acid-blocking drugs can have side effects that affect sexual function. You may also be considering taking a performance enhancing prescription drug, such as Viagra. Talk with your doctor about how medications and your physical condition will affect your sexual abilities and how you can minimize those effects. According to the American Heart Association, thousands of heart patients and stroke survivors have learned that having heart disease, a stroke or surgery does not mean a satisfying sex life must end. After the first phase of recovery, patients find that the same forms of lovemaking that they enjoyed before are still rewarding. Many myths surround sex after heart disease and stroke. The most common one is that resuming sex often causes a heart attack, stroke or sudden death. This is not true. There is no reason why heart patients or stroke survivors cannot resume usual sexual activity as soon as they feel ready for it and get the go-ahead from their physicians. Sex may not be the same as when you were younger, but that does not mean it cannot be as fulfilling or as enjoyable. Many older adults say their sex lives improve as they age. Yours can, too. Improving your sex life requires more communication with your partner. Be understanding, manage your expectations, be patient and most importantly, take care of yourself. A healthy diet and regular exercise will keep your body finely tuned. Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables. Exercise for at least 30 minutes a day, most days of the week. Avoid alcohol, as excessive use decreases sexual function in both men and women. Illegal drugs such as marijuana and cocaine also impair sexual function. You might be embarrassed to discuss sex with your doctor, but he or she can help you with any issues or concerns that you might have. Loretta Kaes, a registered nurse with certification in gerontology, is vice president, health services at Chelsea Senior Living LLC. Chelsea is based in Summit, and operates senior living communities in East Brunswick, Manalapan, Tinton Falls and five other locations. For more information, call (908) 522-0808, or visit the Web site at www.chelseaseniorliving.com.