How Often Do Most 60 Year Olds Make Love? Unpacking Intimacy In Later Life

Zander West 28 Jul 2025

Have you ever wondered about intimacy as people get older, particularly when it comes to how often do most 60 year olds make love? It's a question many people ponder, whether for themselves or for loved ones. There's a common idea that sexual activity just stops at a certain age, but that's really not the full story at all.

The truth is, how often married couples over 60 make love varies quite a bit. It’s a very individual thing, shaped by many different life aspects. You know, it’s not a one-size-fits-all answer, which is actually pretty normal for anything in life.

While physical shifts can certainly play a part in how often sex happens, the deep emotional bond between partners often becomes a more important element. This bond helps keep a satisfying sex life going as people move through their later years, and that's a key point to consider.

What the Numbers Say About Sex After 60
- General Frequencies
- Shifting Patterns Over Time
More Than Just Numbers: The Human Side of Intimacy
Benefits of Staying Sexually Active
Rekindling Connection and Boosting Confidence
Common Questions About Intimacy in Later Years (FAQs)

What the Numbers Say About Sex After 60

When we look at information about how often people have sex, it’s clear that things change with age. Yet, it’s also clear that many older adults are indeed sexually active. So, what do the studies actually tell us about the typical frequency for those in their sixties?

General Frequencies

On average, many married couples aged 60 and older make love about once a week. This adds up to roughly 50 times in a year. This number can vary quite a lot, of course. It depends on personal health, how much desire a person feels, and their own life situations. This is just an average, you know, and not a rule for everyone.

A study by sociologists Pepper Schwartz, Ph.D., and James Witte, Ph.D., looked at over 8,000 people over 50 years old. This research, reported by AARP in 2013, gave some interesting insights. It showed that 31% of couples have sex a few times a week. Another 28% of couples have sex a few times a month. About 8% of couples have sex once a month. The remaining 33% of couples had different patterns, or perhaps no sexual activity at all. This really highlights the wide range of experiences out there.

Other findings suggest slightly different averages, too. For instance, those aged 55 to 64 years reported having sex, on average, about two times per month. This means some people are doing it more, and some less. It’s a bit like asking how much coffee people drink; it just depends on the person, doesn't it?

Another report found that nearly half of all Americans age 60 or over have sex at least once a month. Interestingly, nearly half of these same people also wanted to have sex more frequently. This tells us that desire often remains strong, even if the actual frequency changes. It’s pretty compelling, actually.

For people aged 65 to 74, more than half, about 53% of participants, engaged in sexual activity at least once in the previous year. This shows that a significant portion of older adults continue to have physical intimacy. It’s something that can certainly be a part of life for a long time.

Shifting Patterns Over Time

It’s true that sexual activity typically declines as people get older. This is a natural progression for many. When you look at different age groups, the numbers show this shift quite clearly. For example, people in their 20s have sex, on average, more than 80 times a year. That's a bit more than once every five days, you see.

By the age of 45, this average changes. People in that age group have sex about 60 times per year, which is just over once a week. This shows a gradual reduction over time. It's a slow and steady change for most, apparently.

When people reach age 65, most have sex around 20 times per year. This is less than one time every two weeks. The average person aged 50 to 59 reported having sex 38 times per year. People in their 60s reported having sex an average of 25 times per year. So, the frequency does tend to lessen, but it certainly doesn't disappear. It’s just a different rhythm, perhaps.

It's worth noting that older lovers often say they want sex around twice a month. However, by age 60, intercourse can sometimes become problematic for some couples. This leads many older couples to move away from intercourse and instead embrace other forms of physical intimacy, sometimes called "outercourse." This means exploring different ways to be close and express affection. It's a practical adjustment, really.

More Than Just Numbers: The Human Side of Intimacy

Looking at statistics is helpful, but it doesn't tell the whole story about intimacy in later life. The human experience of love and connection goes far beyond simple counts of how often. There are so many personal elements that play a part. You know, it's about feelings and personal connections, too.

The Power of Emotional Connection

As people age, the emotional bond between partners often becomes a more significant factor in keeping a satisfying sex life. This is a very important point. The depth of feeling, the shared history, and the comfort found in each other's presence can truly fuel desire and closeness. It's not just about physical urges anymore; it's about a deeper, richer connection.

For many older couples, intimacy might be less about high frequency and more about quality. It's about feeling loved, desired, and connected. This can mean gentle touches, long hugs, or simply being present with one another. These acts of affection can be just as meaningful, or even more so, than the act of making love itself. It's a different kind of closeness, perhaps, but still very real.

AARP explores how intimacy and relationships change for older adults. They show how desires for connection can be different depending on age and gender. This highlights that what one person finds satisfying might be different for another. It’s all about what feels right for the individuals involved. It’s pretty fascinating, actually, how these dynamics shift.

Physical Changes and Adaptation

It’s true that physical changes come with age, and these can influence how often and in what ways people engage in sex. Things like shifts in hormone levels, physical discomfort, or health conditions can all play a part. However, these changes do not mean the end of a fulfilling sex life. Not at all, in fact.

Many couples find ways to adapt and discover new forms of intimacy that work for their bodies. This might involve different positions, using lubricants, or focusing on non-intercourse activities. The goal is to find what feels good and brings pleasure and closeness. It's about creativity and openness, you know, finding what works for you as a couple.

The key is often communication and a willingness to explore. Couples can learn about their bodies together and find new ways to express affection and desire. This can actually lead to a deeper, more understanding connection. It’s a process of learning and growing together, which is pretty cool.

Individual Desires and Personal Paths

The frequency of sex after 60 might be less than when you were young, but that does not mean it is any less important. Everyone has a different sex drive, and this can change over time. Factors like emotional state, daily life, work schedules, and personal desires all influence physical intimacy. So, it's hard to say exactly how many times someone "should" make love in a year. It's just too personal.

Some people might find their desire remains strong, while others might experience a decrease. Both are completely normal. What truly matters is that both partners feel satisfied and connected. If one person wants more sex and the other wants less, finding a middle ground through honest talks is key. It’s about meeting each other where you are, more or less.

Older adults make up a growing part of the population who are lovers. When couples in their sixties, seventies, and beyond have partners and are physically able to make love, most do have regular partner sex. This shows that intimacy continues to be a valued part of life for many. It’s a very human need, after all.

Benefits of Staying Sexually Active

Staying sexually active, even if the frequency changes, can have big benefits for your health and overall quality of life. Physical intimacy can reduce stress and improve mood. It can also help maintain physical fitness and flexibility. These are pretty good reasons to keep it going, right?

Beyond the physical aspects, sex can strengthen the emotional bond between partners. It fosters feelings of closeness, love, and security. This kind of connection is very important for overall well-being as people age. It helps people feel seen and valued, which is so vital.

Regular sexual activity can also boost confidence and self-esteem. Feeling desired and capable of intimacy can make a person feel good about themselves. This positive self-image contributes to a happier and more fulfilling life. It’s a chain reaction of good feelings, you know.

For some, it can even improve sleep and provide a sense of vitality. The pleasure and connection can be truly energizing and satisfying. Couple sexuality in one's sixties, seventies, and eighties can be just that: energizing and satisfying. It’s a wonderful part of life that doesn't have an expiration date, apparently.

Rekindling Connection and Boosting Confidence

If you find yourself wondering how to keep intimacy alive or even bring more passion back into your relationship, there are many ways to do it. It’s about being open and willing to try new things. It’s a bit like tending a garden, it needs care and attention, doesn't it?

Open Conversations

The most important step is to talk openly and honestly with your partner. Discuss your desires, your concerns, and any physical changes you might be experiencing. Communication helps both of you understand each other's needs and feelings. It builds a stronger foundation for intimacy. You know, just talking things out can make a huge difference.

It’s helpful to create a safe space where both partners feel comfortable sharing. This means listening without judgment and being supportive. A good conversation can clear up misunderstandings and bring you closer. It’s a simple act, but it has a powerful effect, really.

Exploring New Ways to Connect

Intimacy doesn't always have to look the same. As mentioned, many older couples explore "outercourse" or other forms of physical closeness. This might include extended foreplay, massage, or simply cuddling and touching. The goal is mutual pleasure and connection, however that looks for you.

You can also introduce new elements to your intimate life. This could be trying new times of day, different locations, or incorporating sensual activities that don't necessarily lead to intercourse. Be creative and have fun with it. It’s about discovering what brings joy and closeness to both of you. Learn more about intimacy and relationships on our site.

Prioritizing Health and Well-being

Taking care of your overall health can have a big impact on your sex life. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and managing stress can all contribute to better energy levels and desire. If you have health concerns, talking to a doctor can help address any issues that might be affecting intimacy. This is always a good idea, you know.

For specific concerns, medical professionals can offer solutions or advice. There are many ways to support sexual health as you age. Sometimes, just knowing you’re doing what you can for your body can boost confidence. This proactive approach can make a real difference. You can also link to this page for more tips on maintaining a vibrant sex life.

Common Questions About Intimacy in Later Years (FAQs)

People often have many questions about sex and intimacy as they get older. Here are some common ones, with some quick answers.

Do people in their 60s and 70s still have sex?

Yes, absolutely. Many people in their 60s and 70s continue to have satisfying sexual activity. The frequency might change from younger years, but desire and connection often remain. For example, over half of people aged 65 to 74 reported engaging in sexual activity in the past year. It’s a very common thing, actually.

What is a normal amount of sex for a 60-year-old couple?

There is no single "normal" amount. It varies greatly. Some couples have sex a few times a week, others a few times a month, and some less often. What matters most is what feels satisfying and fulfilling for both partners. It's about personal comfort and shared desire, you know, not a set number.

How can couples maintain a satisfying sex life after 60?

Open communication is key. Talk about your desires and any physical changes. Explore different forms of intimacy beyond intercourse, like cuddling or massage. Prioritizing overall health and seeking advice from a doctor if needed also helps. It's about adapting and staying connected, which is pretty important.

For more detailed information on relationships and intimacy in later life, you might find valuable resources on the AARP website.

How Often? - Adverbs of Definite Frequency #ESL #LearnEnglish | English

Grammar: Adverbs of Frequency - ESL Buzz

Adverbs of Frequency in English Grammar | Learn english grammar

Global Artist Buzz