How do we
navigate sex as we age? How do common health issues and medications affect
sexual desire? How can you use nutrition and exercise to improve sexual wellness?
How do you keep sex hot, whether you’re partnered or single? These are some of
the questions discussed on Saturday, April 25, 2015, at “Older Men’s Sexual
Health,” an LGBTEI Conversation designed to foster a sex-positive,
inclusive and affirming community discussion.
Presenters & the Program Video
Dr. Thomas
Wood, a therapist specializing in sex and relationships, opened the program
with a comprehensive model of the different facets of human sexuality. Wood
told the audience that, “there are as many different types of
sexuality as people on the planet.” He also emphasized that, “sexuality is
lifelong.”
Jim Hart, a nutrition and fitness expert, discussed
the role that testosterone plays in both sexual and overall health; natural
decline in testosterone with age versus symptoms that are concerning; and how
to boost one’s testosterone levels naturally through holistic methods.
Dr. Goodman Addressing the Group
Mazzoni Center’s Dr. Andrew Goodman talked about common health concerns of older men, how to recognize them, how they are treated, and how both conditions and medications for them may affect desire and sexual performance. Goodman acknowledged that many men are hesitant to visit the doctor to ask about sexual concerns. He emphasized that, “If you can’t talk to your provider about sex, you need a new provider.”
Penn pharmacist Wayne Marquardt reviewed the pharmaceutical
aspects of erectile dysfunction. Many medications for conditions of aging such
as diabetes and high blood pressure can negatively affect men’s desire for sex
and ability to maintain an erection. Interactions between medications can also
contribute to erectile dysfunction (ED). Marquardt also discussed
pharmaceutical and surgical treatments for ED and shared helpful tips for
bringing it up with your doctor.
Stephanie Chando, a palliative care social worker at
Penn and education coordinator at the Sexploratorium, focused on the importance
of communication to keeping sex hot as you age, regardless of what’s going on
with your body. She gave tips for exploring what you want and communicating it
to a partner or partners. Chando also passed around sex toys available at the
Sexploratorium, including butt plugs, dildos and handcuffs.
“Older
Men’s Sexual Health” was a collaborative effort of the LGBT Elder Initiative,
the William Way Community Center and Penn Medicine CAREs. COLOURS provided
safer sex supplies and information.
This program was made possible with support from
Philadelphia Corporation for Aging, the Delaware Valley Legacy Fund, PNC Bank,
and the Philadelphia Gay News.
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