📖 Overview
Love and Sex After 60 explores the realities of intimacy and relationships among older adults. Dr. Robert N. Butler, a pioneer in gerontology, presents research and case studies that examine sexuality in later life.
The book addresses physical changes, health considerations, and emotional dynamics that impact intimate relationships after age 60. Medical information is balanced with practical guidance on maintaining and enhancing romantic connections during the aging process.
This work challenges societal myths about aging and sexuality while providing resources for readers navigating their own relationships. Butler's clinical expertise combines with first-hand accounts from older adults to create a comprehensive guide.
The text stands as both a medical resource and a cultural statement about the ongoing human need for love, touch, and connection throughout all life stages. It reinforces that romantic fulfillment remains possible and important well into older age.
👀 Reviews
Readers appreciate the book's candid discussion of intimacy in later life, with many highlighting its practical advice and non-judgmental tone. Reviews frequently mention the book's effectiveness at addressing both physical and emotional aspects of aging relationships.
Positives:
- Clear medical information about age-related changes
- Real-life examples and case studies
- Inclusive approach to different orientations and relationship types
- Addresses widow/widower dating concerns
Negatives:
- Some readers found the content dated
- Medical terminology can be dense
- Limited discussion of online dating
- Sections on medications need updating
Ratings:
Amazon: 4.1/5 (83 reviews)
Goodreads: 3.8/5 (42 reviews)
Notable reader comment: "Finally, a book that treats senior sexuality with respect rather than as a joke or problem to be solved." - Amazon reviewer
Specific criticism: "Good information but needs revision to address modern dating dynamics" - Goodreads reviewer
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Better Than I Ever Expected: Straight Talk About Sex After Sixty by Joan Price Combines personal experiences with expert advice on maintaining sexual health and relationships in the senior years.
The Ultimate Guide to Sex After 50 by Joan Price Addresses common concerns about sex and aging through medical facts, relationship guidance, and practical solutions.
Sex After 60: A French Guide to Loving Intimacy by Marie de Hennezel Examines the intersection of aging and sexuality through a cultural lens while incorporating psychological research and medical expertise.
Sex Over 50 by Joel D. Block Presents research-based information on physical changes, medical concerns, and relationship dynamics for aging couples.
Better Than I Ever Expected: Straight Talk About Sex After Sixty by Joan Price Combines personal experiences with expert advice on maintaining sexual health and relationships in the senior years.
The Ultimate Guide to Sex After 50 by Joan Price Addresses common concerns about sex and aging through medical facts, relationship guidance, and practical solutions.
Sex After 60: A French Guide to Loving Intimacy by Marie de Hennezel Examines the intersection of aging and sexuality through a cultural lens while incorporating psychological research and medical expertise.
🤔 Interesting facts
🔸 Robert N. Butler coined the term "ageism" in 1969 and won a Pulitzer Prize for his work on aging, making him a pioneering voice in addressing discrimination against older adults.
🔸 The book was one of the first mainstream publications to openly discuss sexuality among older adults, helping break long-held taboos when it was first published in 1976.
🔸 Studies referenced in the book showed that up to 74% of men and 56% of women over 60 remain sexually active, contradicting common misconceptions about aging and intimacy.
🔸 Butler established the first department of geriatrics at a U.S. medical school (Mount Sinai School of Medicine) and was the founding director of the National Institute on Aging.
🔸 The book has been translated into 12 languages and has undergone multiple editions to incorporate new research and changing attitudes about senior sexuality over the decades.