103 – Interview: Better Sex in Later Life

In This Episode:

Dr. K talks about sex in later life with geriatrician Dr. Nicole Didyk, founder of the blog and YouTube channel The Wrinkle. They discuss:

• How Dr. Didyk learned more about this important topic by connecting with Nathalie Wilton, a social worker and sex therapist who focuses on older adults
• Why it’s so common for health providers — and older adults — to have low “sexual literacy”, when it comes to aging and sexuality
• How aging often affects sex and sexuality
• Common concerns that patients have brought up in her clinical practice
• What can be done if there is a mismatch in interest between two partners
• The role of solo sex, toys, and activities other than intercourse
• How being a hands-on caregiver to your partner can affect sex
• Special issues that come up when one partner develops a dementia, such as Alzheimer’s
• Tips on how to maintain and improve sexuality in later life

Related Resources:

• Dr. Didyk’s audio interviews (which include transcripts) with Nathalie Wilton on The Wrinkle:
  • Part One – Sex in Later Life – Interview with Natalie Wilton
  • Part Two – Sex and the Caregiver with Natalie Wilton
  • Part Three – Sex and the Changing Brain with Natalie Wilton
• Dr. Didyk’s related BHWA Article: How Sex Changes With Aging (& What You Can Do About It)
• Additional resources recommended by Dr. Didyk:
  • Joan Price – author and advocate for ageless sexuality
  • Come As You Are – Sex and Aging blog
  • Safer sex 4 seniors – FAQ sheets and information about safe sex, and sex in general for older adults
  • Sex, Intimacy and Cancer – Canadian Cancer Society, or American Cancer Society