We’re not entirely sure why there’s such a downturn. Retirees on the whole are just as happily married as people who are still working. But if we are to hazard a guess, there could be a few factors:
- Possibly it’s the increased amount of time together. This would be in the sense that too much familiarity breeds contempt, or at least disinterest. Or being in such close quarters provides more opportunities for skirmishes, which can put emotional distance between partners.
- Maybe it has to do with self-esteem. Retirees rate themselves much lower than those who are working, and a weakened self-confidence could inhibit sexual desire, and possibly competence.
- Retirees tend to feel less energetic. The retirement lifestyle can be de-motivating and produce laziness, and laziness begets more laziness. So with a lower overall drive, many retirees have a reduced inclination to have or want sex.
Whatever the reasons, this is not an ideal situation. Putting forth effort to maintain an active sex life should be higher on a retiree’s agenda, if for no other reason than it’s health benefits. As we mentioned above, a good sex life will make you feel more connected with your partner, feel better emotionally and psychologically, and improve your motivation to do other things. This is a health and exercise regimen that you can devote your time and effort to without much chance of getting injured.
For those who just cannot find their way to a more interesting and satisfying sex life, they might want to consider a visit to a sex therapist. The results of doing so might be surprisingly helpful, but if not, will likely give you and your partner a good laugh.
Either way, to borrow a line from Nike — Just Do It.
My wife wants sex in the backseat of the car. And she wants me to drive.
-Rodney Dangerfield
