High risk at middle age sex

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Sexually active middle-aged people are putting themselves at risk of contracting infections, a Saga survey has revealed.

The 'Frisky Fifties' get between the sheets at least once a weekThe study found that one in 10 sexually active over-fifties did not use contraception to stop them catching sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and did not know about their partner's sexual history.

The findings, which identified the over-fifties as having "frisky" sex lives, formed part of a wider survey into the general health of this age group.

According to the Saga/Populus survey of the over-50s, 65% said they were sexually active, with 46% of these saying they "got between the sheets at least once a week".

Emma Soames, Saga Magazine editor, said: "These findings shatter the myth that once you hit 50 your sex life is over, there is less pressure than when people were younger and it is likely that you feel more comfortable about your body.

"Forget about the dirty thirties or the naughty forties. The frisky fifties are having the most fun by swapping the boardroom for the bedroom.

"However, while a healthy sex life is a good thing, the over-fifties must be wise to their sexual health, as well as their overall health."

The survey found that 85% found sex less pressurised after 50 and that 76% found sex a more fulfilling experience than in their younger years.

But a majority agreed that they had sex less often as they got older, with 84% admitting they had sex less often in their fifties than they did in their twenties or thirties.

A minority (16%) also admitted using performance enhancing drugs such as Viagra to aid their sex life.

The survey also found that 38% of those aged 65 and over exercised every day, compared to just 29% of 50 to 54-year-olds.

And 76% tried to eat five pieces of fruit and vegetables a day.

Problems at work were likely to be the greatest cause of stress followed by relationships, but 24% said they would keep any feelings of stress, anxiety or depression to themselves rather than tell their family or seek medical advice.