Safe sex even as we get older

Young people are accused of sexual irresponsibility, that is, that although they are increasingly free to engage in the more carnal arts of love earlier, they do so carelessly without taking proper preventive measures, and that this is alarming. increase in sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). To the point where public health is considering funding condoms to help reduce infections.

The last straw was the fact that an increase in the incidence of STDs is also observed among people over 60 years of age. The mouse is still part of the infections that occur every year, but the increase in the incidence of gonorrhea, chlamydia or syphilis has tripled since, according to the latest research published in Spain, 75% of people aged 55 to 65 never or almost never use a condom in sexual relations.

We live longer and better, which means our sex life is lengthening. And that’s good, very good. Moreover, as soon as the possibility of pregnancy disappears, a person experiences more relaxed sexuality, has more sexual partners, which is favorable – if you refuse condoms – to STDs. On the other hand, the advent of chemical treatments for erectile dysfunction and vaginal dryness means that age-related ailments that also affect sexuality have a solution.

“The problem is that older people don’t talk about it, doctors don’t ask them, and it’s hardly reflected in surveys. Current generations of older people have never received sexuality education and are often unaware of the risks that come with having other partners if adequate precautions are not taken,” explains Vania de la Fuente, a physician and anthropologist and an international expert on ageism. and healthy aging.

• Menopause. A small uprising sparked by celebrities is breaking the historical silence on menopause and entering discussions on social media and other platforms. The communicator, nutritionist and trainer explains their initiatives, shares their experiences at this vital stage in women’s lives and offers advice on how to turn this process into an opportunity.

• existential anxiety. Since we are talking about older people, saying goodbye to parents, even if their death is expected or in old age, gives rise to a feeling of orphanhood and emptiness that can be difficult to overcome, although we all understand that this is the law of life. . We are never truly prepared for the death of our parents, especially if we were lucky enough to enjoy them for many years.

AND ALSO

• AI and suicide. Could artificial intelligence be an accomplice to suicide? The case of a teenager who committed suicide after months of interacting with AI doubles down on concerns about the impact of technology on the mental health of minors: “They will soon have more AI friends than humans.”

• Gender stereotypes. Men and women who call themselves “high-value” promote gender stereotypes on social media. Hundreds of videos created by influencers spread a patriarchal discourse about how men and women should behave to achieve “the best version of themselves.”

INTERVIEW

• Joan Sabater Tobella. A biochemist and businessman working at 90 says that “you’ll grow old the day you have no motivation to learn anything new.” Sabater Tobella, PharmD, a specialist in biochemistry and pharmacogenetics, founded Eugenomic with his daughter twelve years ago. “A personalized approach is essential for preventive medicine,” he explains.

INSPIRATION

• Always have good sex. After 60, it is also possible and necessary. There are many studies that support the benefits of this practice and the problems associated with abstinence.

• Do exercises. Exercise should be part of daily life to reduce the risk of certain diseases, and there are simple exercises that mimic the movements of everyday tasks.

• Develop a hobby. Various studies show that there is a link between engaging in hobbies and being less likely to develop dementia. “Recreational activities improve physical and mental health,” explains psychologist Unai Aso.