Seniors receive guidance regarding their sexual health

Nationally renowned psychosexual therapist Ruth Westheimer recently addressed a group of senior citizens from the Boston assisted-living facility NewBridge on the Charles, according to an article published in the Boston Globe. The doctor, who has made televised appearances on programs such as Late Night with David Letterman, provided the group with tips for sustaining healthy sex lives into old age.

Westheimer told the newspaper that many aspects of sex change with age. For example, she said men tend to take longer to achieve erections or an orgasm, and women may need to use lubricating products during sex to compensate for low estrogen levels.

Regardless of a person's age, all sexually active individuals should be aware of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), Westheimer explained to the news source.

"No matter your age, if you start a new relationship, you and your partner should be tested to make sure neither of you are infected with any sexually transmitted disease," she told the Globe.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, individuals who are over the age of 50 account for about 15 percent of new HIV cases each year.

Anyone who would like to be screened for STDs may consider using online testing services.