Health experts want boomer generation that they are not immune to STDs

The baby boomer generation will turn 65 this year, but despite their senior status, these individuals may be just as likely to contract a sexually transmitted disease as teens. A recent article published by CNN Health highlights some of these sex-related concerns among the older demographic.

Boomers who are not involved in monogamous relationships use condoms less frequently than do people in their 20s, the news provider reported. Two reasons why seniors may forgo prophylactics may be that they already experience decreased levels of natural lubrication, which can make condom use uncomfortable. Another explanation could be that these individuals are beyond their reproductive years, so they are not worried about unwanted pregnancy.

"Lots of times people are concerned about pregnancy, not concerned about infections," said Debby Herbenick, research scientist at Indiana University, quoted by the news organization.

However, despite sexual dysfunction that is commonly associated with old age, the news source reported that recent surveys indicate some seniors in their 90s are still sexually active.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lists the elderly as a high-risk group for STDs, since some seniors may mistake symptoms of these infections for normal signs of aging.