What age do people stop having sex? The real statistics

People don’t stop having sex at any specific age. Many adults remain sexually active into their 60s, 70s, and even into their 80s. Sexual activity often changes because of health conditions, medications, or discomfort. Partner availability also plays a major role in how long someone remains sexually active.

If you find yourself less interested in sex as you get older, that’s normal. Sexual activity tends to decline gradually with age, but the shift is different for everyone.

It’s important to remember that age alone doesn’t determine someone’s interest in sex or intimacy, and many older adults continue to value closeness in whatever way feels comfortable for them.

Sexual activity doesn’t drop off the way you might assume, and these numbers help put real-world patterns into perspective.

Ages 20s–30s

Most adults in their 20s and 30s remain sexually active. In survey data of adults, weekly sexual activity is common, especially among those in stable relationships. 

However, inactivity has increased in recent years, especially among younger men. About 31% of men and 19% of women aged 18–24 reported no sexual activity in the past year. 

Sexual inactivity rose markedly among adults 25–34, with about 14% of men and 13% of women reporting no sex in the past year.

Ages 40s–50s

Sexual activity remains common in midlife, although its frequency may decrease as health conditions and hormonal changes occur.

In a national US survey, only around 8% of adults aged 35–44 reported no sexual activity in the past year, which means over 90% are still sexually active. Sex was still common for many adults, with over half reporting that they have sex every week.

Most people in their 40s and 50s continue to have sex regularly unless other factors like health issues or lack of a partner get in the way.

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Ages 60s–70s

A large share of older adults remain sexually active. Multiple studies across different countries consistently show that approximately 30%–60% of adults in their 60s and early 70s report sexual activity. 

Studies of adults 60 and older found wide variation in sexual activity rates, with estimates ranging from 13%–90% depending on methodology, timeframe, age, and gender. Sexual activity in this age group was more common among men and those with a partner and tended to decline with increasing age. 

In one large Dutch survey of people who were 65 and older, almost half of partnered individuals reported sexual activity within the past six months, while only 1% of unpartnered women were sexually active during the same timeframe.

Partnered adults were also 15 times more likely to have sex and 51 times more likely to experience physical affection, such as hugging and kissing, compared to unpartnered adults.

This pattern suggests that many older adults remain interested in sex and intimacy, and that declining activity often reflects lack of a partner, not a lack of desire or ability.

Ages 75+

Sexual activity declines after age 75, but it doesn’t disappear. Survey data found that among adults aged 70–99, about one in three reported being sexually active in the last year.

Those who were more likely to be sexually active were generally on the younger end of this age range, partnered, were more satisfied with their sexual life, and held more permissive attitudes towards

sexuality in later life. Those facing disabilities had sex less frequently than those who were not.   

What’s worth noting is that sexual expression extends well beyond intercourse. Even among those who weren’t sexually active, nearly half reported physical tenderness, including hugging, kissing, or affectionate touch, within the previous year.

This shows that intimacy remains important for many adults in their late 70s, 80s, and 90s, even when sexual activity becomes less frequent.

Age isn’t the main reason people stop having sex later in life, and men and women don’t necessarily stop having sex at the same age. Many other factors influence whether older adults are sexually active. The primary difference is largely due to whether they have a partner. According to one large survey, there were far more unpartnered older women than men, roughly six to one, which made older women much less likely to have someone to be intimate with.

Even though older men were more sexually active, older women often felt more satisfied with their sex lives. Menopause symptoms can make sex uncomfortable for some people, but many still feel fulfilled because they define sexual satisfaction more broadly, not just by intercourse.

Men were more likely to feel dissatisfied, partly because some struggle to adjust their expectations as they age. 

Cultural norms add another layer. Research shows men tend to report more sexual activity, and women may underreport it, which can make the gap look bigger than it is. 

And finally, health matters too. People who felt healthier, regardless of gender, were more engaged with their sex lives.

Sex often changes for reasons that have little to do with age itself, and understanding those factors can make the shifts feel less mysterious or worrying.

Health conditions

Physical health plays a major role in how often people have sex as they get older. Chronic illnesses can make sexual activity more difficult. People tend to see a drop in sexual frequency when overall health declines.

The same condition can affect different people in different ways. For example, hypertension may contribute to erectile issues but may not directly limit sexual activity for women or those without penises.

Because much of sex happens within relationships, a partner’s health matters too. Older men are more likely to cite their own health as the reason they’re not sexually active, while older women more often point to their partner’s health challenges.

Erectile dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) becomes more common with age, and many people notice changes in their ability to get or keep an erection as they get older.

In a large US analysis of almost 20 million people, less than 1% had an ED diagnosis or were receiving ED treatment between the ages of 18 and 29.

This number climbed steadily through midlife and peaked at about 11.5% of those in their 60s. After age 70, the numbers dropped again, which may reflect less frequent practitioner visits, less interest in treatment, or fewer partnered sexual opportunities.

People who were diagnosed or treated for ED were also more likely to have other health conditions that can affect sexual function, including high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, depression, and prostate-related issues.

Menopause effects

Menopause can affect your sexual comfort and desire, and these changes often play a role in how sexually active you feel during this stage of life.

In a study of women aged 40–59, those who were still sexually active had fewer menopause symptoms overall. They reported fewer physical effects, like hot flashes and sleep issues, and fewer psychological symptoms, such as mood changes.

They also experienced better sexual function, including more excitement, better lubrication, easier orgasm, and less pain during sex. 

The good news is that higher emotional support is associated with maintaining a healthy sex life later in life. Furthermore, if you are experiencing symptoms like dryness that make sex uncomfortable, sleep with your healthcare provider because there may be treatment options that are right for you.

Medications

Certain medications can affect sexual desire, arousal, and orgasm, and these effects can happen at any age. Antidepressants, especially SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors), are often associated with sexual dysfunction, though other medications such as statins may also have a negative effect.

The types of changes people experience usually differ by sex. Men more commonly report erectile issues, lower libido, and ejaculation problems, while women more often report decreased desire, pain from sex, and difficulty with arousal.

Lack of partner

Partner availability is one of the biggest reasons sexual activity declines in later life. The number of widowed women rises sharply with age, while far fewer men are widowed, leaving many women without a potential partner.

Men also tend to partner with younger women, which widens this gap. With fewer available partners, partnered sexual activity naturally becomes less common, especially for older women.

Mental health

Emotional wellbeing can influence sexual frequency. Feeling happier is linked to being more sexually active, but this connection becomes weaker at older ages.

Many people also experience increased symptoms of depression as they age, and antidepressant use can dampen sexual desire. Together, these shifts may contribute to a gradual decline in how often people pursue sexual activity.

A few practical shifts can make sex feel easier and more comfortable. Here are some of the changes that have the biggest impact.

Treat underlying health conditions: Chronic conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and depression can affect desire, arousal, and comfort during sex. Managing these conditions may help make sexual activity easier and more enjoyable.

Address ED with medications: ED becomes more common with age. Prescription medications, including Viagra, Cialis, and other options offered through Ro, like Daily Rise Gummies and Ro Sparks, can help improve erections and make sexual activity more reliable for those who need support.

Use lubricants and vaginal estrogen: Vaginal dryness and discomfort increase with age, especially after menopause. Using lubricants or vaginal estrogen can make sex more comfortable.

Regular exercise: In physically active adults, higher weekly exercise levels were linked with lower odds of getting ED in men and with lower odds of sexual difficulties such as problems with arousal or orgasm in women.

Open communication with a partner: Talking openly about what feels good, what has changed, and what either partner needs can improve sexual desire and make sex more satisfying.

Redefine sex beyond intercourse: Intimacy can include touching, kissing, oral sex, manual stimulation, or other forms of closeness, and expanding the definition of sex can keep a couple’s connection strong, even if intercourse isn’t always possible or comfortable.

Maintain a healthy weight: It’s possible for excess weight, especially around the waist, to raise the risk of health and sexual difficulties in any gender. Maintaining a healthy weight can help enhance sexual function and promote better overall health.

Follow a healthy diet: Eating nutritious foods, like a Mediterranean-style diet, can support sexual function by improving metabolic and cardiovascular health over time.

Limit alcohol and quit smoking: Cutting back on alcohol and avoiding smoking can lower your risk of sexual dysfunction.

Sexual activity can support physical, emotional, and relational health throughout adulthood. These benefits come from many different things. Here’s what the research shows.

Pleasure and overall wellbeing

Sex can provide physical and emotional pleasure, whether through partnered sex, non-penetrative activities, or solo sexual behavior. Pleasure itself is tied to better wellbeing and can reinforce positive feelings, confidence, and self-esteem.

Many people say pleasure is their main reason for having sex. The positive emotions that come with sexual enjoyment can create a beneficial cycle that supports ongoing sexual activity.

Pain relief

Sex and orgasm can temporarily reduce different types of pain. Some people with migraines or cluster headaches report improvement during sexual activity. People report anywhere between moderate to complete relief of symptoms. 

Pressure on some sensitive regions, self-stimulation, and orgasm can raise pain thresholds in some people, partly through the release of endorphins and oxytocin.

Muscle relaxation after orgasm may also ease spasms and discomfort, which can ease menstrual cramps or endometriosis-related pain.

Better sleep

After sexual activity and orgasm, people often experience decreased muscle tension, increased relaxation, and increased oxytocin and prolactin — all conditions associated with better sleep.

Many adults report improved sleep quality after partnered sex or masturbation, and some people use sexual activity specifically as a sleep aid.

Hormonal health

Sex and physical intimacy also influence several key hormones:

• Oxytocin often increases during arousal and orgasm and is associated with bonding, relaxation, and emotional closeness.  

• Testosterone supports sexual desire in all genders. Sexual activity, erotic thoughts, and even certain types of cuddling can raise testosterone levels.

• Cortisol, the primary stress hormone, may decrease during sexual arousal and physical intimacy, helping to counteract stress in the moment. 

These hormonal shifts contribute to the calming, mood-boosting, and connected feelings many people experience with sexual activity.

Improved mood and reduced depression

Sexual activity can lift mood and help reduce depressive symptoms for some people. Positive partnered experiences are linked to next-day improvements in mood, lower stress, and even higher job satisfaction.

Sexual satisfaction is also closely tied to relationship satisfaction and general emotional wellbeing.

Maintaining sexual function

The saying “use it or lose it” appears to apply to sexual function. Longer periods without sexual activity can be associated with weaker or less reliable erections and more dryness and discomfort in the vagina.

Postmenopausal people who stay sexually active tend to have lower rates of vulvar pain, dryness, and irritation.

If you’re having issues with dryness, high levels of arousal can also help reduce discomfort during sex, even when estrogen levels are low.

Heart health and long-term physical benefits

Sex can act as a form of moderate physical activity. Penile-vaginal intercourse typically raises heart rate and blood pressure in ways similar to moderate exercise. Circulatory changes start even during arousal.

Some studies show a connection between regular sexual activity and lower mortality rates, reduced inflammation, better cardiovascular markers, and lower risks of certain conditions over time. Frequent ejaculation has also been associated with reduced prostate cancer risk.

Cognitive support

Regular sexual activity in older adulthood has been linked with better cognitive performance and memory. People who stay sexually active could experience slower cognitive decline than those who stop, although more research is needed to understand why.

Changes in your sex life are normal as you age, but some shifts are worth checking in about. Getting support early can make sex more comfortable, less stressful, and more enjoyable again.

If you’re familiar with any of these things, consider speaking to a healthcare professional to get the help you need:

• Sudden loss of desire or function: If your interest in sex or your ability to have sex drops quickly, it may be a sign of something medical or emotional that’s worth evaluating.

• ED that doesn’t go away: If erection issues seem to be ongoing and interfere with your ability to have a normal, satisfying sex life, it may be time to talk about treatment options.

• Painful sex: Occasional discomfort during sex can happen, but it isn’t something you have to live with. Many causes of painful sex such as vaginal dryness, pelvic floor dysfunction, or hormonal changes can be addressed with a healthcare provider’s support. 

• Relationship stress around sex: If sexual changes are creating tension or worry between you and your partner, getting outside support can help take the pressure off.

• Curiosity about treatment options: If you’re interested in medications, lubricants, vaginal estrogen, or other options, a healthcare provider can guide you toward safe, personalized choices.

Medications and newer treatment options can help make sex enjoyable again for those dealing with erectile dysfunction, which tends to occur more frequently with advancing age. 

Viagra, Cialis, tadalafil, and sildenafil

Medications like Viagra, Cialis, sildenafil, and tadalafil are commonly used treatments for ED.

These drugs work by improving blood flow to the penis to help you get and maintain an erection when you’re sexually stimulated.

Ro Sparks, Daily Rise Gummies, branded and generic options

Ro offers several effective ED treatments. For example, Ro Sparks* is a fast-acting dissolving tablet that combines sildenafil and tadalafil in one dose and can start working in as little as 15 minutes after dissolving.

Daily Rise Gummies* use a low daily dose of tadalafil to keep levels steady in the body, making sexual activity easier without advance planning.

Ro also provides brand-name and generic versions of Viagra, Cialis, sildenafil, and tadalafil.

* Although these particular formulations are not US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved, they’re composed of active ingredients that have been individually FDA-approved for ED.

Success rates and safety for older adults

ED medications are considered safe for most older adults and have been studied extensively in people over 65. Sometimes older adults are started at lower doses of medication to see how their body responds.

These medications are effective for many people, although response rates can be lower in older adults. Some people need several tries before seeing results.

These drugs also have a long safety record but come with side effects and require a prescription from a healthcare provider. That’s why these medications may not be a good fit for people with certain heart conditions, those using nitrates, or those with unstable blood pressure. Additional options are available (including penile injections and vacuum devices). Speak with your healthcare provider if you have further questions.

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Sexual activity doesn’t end at any set age, and many adults continue to have fulfilling sex lives well into older adulthood. What often changes is how frequently people have sex and what sexual activity looks like for them.

Here’s what you need to remember: 

• Most adults stay sexually active into their later years: Many people continue having some form of sex in their 60s, 70s, and sometimes even their 80s.

• Health and partner availability influence sexual activity more than age: Health conditions, depression, or menopause symptoms can affect sexual function, and having a partner is one of the strongest predictors of whether someone remains sexually active.

• Sexual issues play a major role: ED, lubrication changes, and pain can make sex harder and can be more common as you age, but these issues are treatable. Talk to a healthcare provider if you feel like they may be getting in the way of enjoying sex.

• Lifestyle habits matter too: Regular exercise, a nutritious diet, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol, and avoiding smoking can help improve sexual function.

If you’re wondering at what age do people stop having sex, there’s no universal age. Talking with a healthcare provider can help you figure out what’s driving any changes you’re noticing and what options can help you maintain a satisfying sex life.