DURHAM, N.H.—(February 26, 2025)—A study by the University of New Hampshire challenges common assumptions about aging and intimacy, revealing that many single adults aged 60 to 83 continue to prioritize sexual activity in their romantic relationships — underscoring the enduring significance of sex for older adults.
"Many participants expressed that a relationship without sex felt more like a friendship," said Lauren Harris, assistant professor of human development and family studies. "They were seeking romance and physical connection, viewing sexual intimacy as essential to their relationships."
The study, published in the Journal of Sex Research, involved in-depth interviews with 100 single men and women, all active users of online dating platforms. An overwhelming 97% of participants emphasized the importance of sex in a romantic relationship, with 72% indicating they would not pursue a relationship lacking sexual activity.
"We just have more single older adults today than we've ever had before. Historically, someone might be widowed or divorced later in life and be single for five or 10 years. Now they could be single for 30 years, and that changes how we think about relationships and partnering," said Harris.
The study also dispels the notion that physical changes associated with aging hinder intimacy. Participants expressed openness to adapting their sexual practices to maintain connection, whether through medical support, redefining intimacy, or adjusting expectations around frequency or intensity.
The research highlights other challenges that older adults face with dating, such as limited access to partners, particularly for women who statistically outnumber single men in older age groups.
"The findings reshape expectations about aging and demonstrates that sexuality remains an important part of life across the lifespan," said Harris.
The researchers stress that understanding this demographic is crucial and advocate for more open discussions about sexual health among older adults, especially as sexually transmitted infections rise in this age group.
