In this episode of Up the Rabbit Hole, Dr. Cory Hrushka and Brandi Enns are joined by Joan Price, author, speaker, and advocate for ageless sexuality. Together, they explore the often-overlooked topic of sexuality in aging populations, shedding light on the challenges, changes, and opportunities that come with maintaining a fulfilling sex life as we age. Joan offers both personal and professional insights that challenge outdated narratives and empower listeners to embrace intimacy later in life with confidence and curiosity.
Reigniting the Spark in Later Years
This episode emphasizes that it’s perfectly normal for older couples to experience a shift in how they connect sexually. Physical changes such as unreliable erections or vaginal dryness may mean that “old ways” of having sex are no longer effective. Instead of viewing this as a loss, couples are encouraged to adapt. Open, non-judgmental communication in neutral settings is key to navigating these changes and evolving together.
Challenging Harmful Myths About Aging and Sex
The episode confronts common misconceptions. Such as the belief that older adults lose interest in sex or that menopause and erectile dysfunction mark the end of one’s sex life. Joan encourages listeners to move away from rigid expectations and focus on what brings them joy and connection in the present. Sexuality doesn’t expire, it transforms.
Redefining What Sex Looks Like
Rather than focusing on simultaneous arousal or orgasm, couples should take turns pleasuring each other, with each act standing alone as a complete and satisfying experience. This shift reduces performance pressure and fosters deeper emotional and physical connection.
Intentional Planning Can Build Anticipation
Scheduling intimacy during times of high energy, rather than when tired or after meals, can improve sexual experiences significantly. This can add to the excitement of dating, where planning, anticipation, and thoughtful preparation can heighten arousal and enjoyment.
Pleasure Over Performance
Shifting the focus from orgasm to overall pleasure opens the door to new forms of intimacy. By removing the pressure to “perform,” individuals can experience freedom, creativity, and often more satisfying sexual encounters.
Embracing Body Confidence and Pleasure
This episode addresses the anxiety many women feel about their aging bodies, encouraging them to celebrate their capacity for pleasure instead of comparing themselves to unrealistic beauty standards and reminds listeners that confidence and connection are far more powerful than perfection.
Understanding Responsive Desire
Desire doesn’t always start with arousal. It can develop in response to touch, connection, and stimulation. This episode explains that recognizing the difference between spontaneous and responsive desire can help couples adjust expectations and still enjoy meaningful intimacy, especially in postmenopausal years.
Men and Women Grow Closer in Sexual Needs with Age
As people age, men’s and women’s sexual responses begin to align. Men may become more emotionally receptive and require more stimulation for arousal, while women benefit from ongoing gestures of affection that build desire throughout the day.
Intimacy Without Erections
Losing an erection doesn’t mean the end of intimacy. Explore pleasure in all its forms, from oral sex to sensual touch and remember that connection doesn’t hinge on penetration or rigidity.
Keeping Connection Alive Through Communication and Tools
Ultimately, our podcast hosts and guest Joan Price emphasize the importance of communication, experimentation, and support. From lubricants and sex toys to therapy and education, there are countless ways to explore intimacy in later life. Couples are encouraged to remain curious, open, and connected as their bodies and desires change.
This heartfelt episode reframes aging not as a sexual limitation, but as a new chapter of discovery. With warmth, wisdom, and practical advice, our hosts aim to inspire listeners to embrace the possibilities of intimacy at any stage of life.
Discover more about Joan Price and connect with her work through the following channels:
Social Media:
Facebook: Naked at Our Age with Joan Price
Instagram: @thejoanprice
Twitter/X: @joanprice
Bluesky: @joanprice
Website & Contact:
Website: www.joanprice.com
✉️ Email: joan@joanprice.com
Featured Work & Resources:
Ongoing Blog Post – Recovery Journey from a Car Crash
Newly Updated: Sex after Grief: Navigating Your Sexuality after Losing Your Beloved
Award-Winning Book: Naked at Our Age: Talking Out Loud about Senior Sex
Subscribe to her newsletter: Senior Sex News & Views
Up the Rabbit Hole is a podcast where sex therapist Dr. Cory Hrushka speaks about all things sex and gender. We invite you to listen to our episodes here.
You may also find us on Instagram @insightpsychologicalinc and our website at www.insightpsychological.ca.
Happy listening!
