We typically lose energy as we age, and this can affect our performance both in the boardroom and in the bedroom. But experts say there are proven ways to boost energy levels, even in our senior years.
"Never think that a lack of energy means an end to your sex life, and there is nothing you can do about it," says Dr. Sharon Bober, director of the Harvard-affiliated Dana-Farber Sexual Health Program. "There are many strategies you can adopt to get back in the game."
Bober says that lost sexual vim and vigor is often related to emotional, physical, or relationship issues. Here’s a look at the most common causes according to Harvard Health Publishing:
- Low hormones. Lack of sexual energy can be due to low testosterone levels. Testosterone levels drop about 1% each year beginning in the late 30’s and could fall as much as 50% by age 70. See your doctor who can perform a simple blood test to determine your testosterone level and prescribe appropriate treatment.
- Erectile dysfunction. ED is the most common sex problem that men report to their doctor, according to the Urology Care Foundation. It affects as many as 30 million men and can lead to low self-esteem and depression. While erectile dysfunction can happen for a variety of reasons, many men can ease or even reverse ED by making simple lifestyle changes—such as losing excess weight and quitting smoking — for as many as 75% of men, the cause may be more complex. According to Harvard Medical School, ED may result from vascular disease, neurological disease, diabetes, or prostate-related treatments or surgeries. Sometimes it’s a side effect of a medication you are taking.
- Poor sleep. Poor sleep interferes with how your body stores and uses energy. Instead of feeling rested and energetic in the morning you feel sluggish and tired which can interfere with your sex life. According to a new study, women who did not routinely get restful slumber were nearly twice as likely to report sexual problems, such as lack of desire or arousal. Talk with your doctor about ways to improve your sleep quality such as changing medication options, cognitive behavior therapy, and adjusting your diet and sleep patterns.
- Lack of exercise. Regular exercise is one of nature’s finest energy boosters. Numerous studies have linked regular exercise with improving fatigue, especially among sedentary people. Experts recommend just 2.5 hours a week of moderate intensity exercise to help restore energy. Try a combination of cardiovascular and weight bearing exercises like brisk walking and resistance training.
- Anxiety. Both men and women can boost their libido by identifying life stressors that may be interfering with their sex lives, according to Medical News Today. Studies have shown and anxiety and depression can lead to reduced libido and increased sexual dysfunction. Talking to a therapist may help.
- Boredom. Couples can into ruts that make for boring sex lives, notes Bober. "It can be fun to speak with your partner about ways to keep the relationship interesting and even erotic," she says. The expert suggests having more date nights, going for a long romantic weekend, or even taking up simple activates together to reignite the passion. "Investing in change can energize both you and your partner, and most important, pave the way for a renewed sense of closeness and novelty that is great for all couples," she says.