From couplepause to doublepause: the impact of midlife physical, psychological, and social changes on the sexual life of aging couples

Abstract

Introduction Midlife men and women are facing frequent sexual problems that affect not only individuals’ sexual health but also the sexual health of aging couples. Objectives To review the main sexual life challenges faced by midlife couples, to present the concepts of couplepause and doublepause as 2 new paradigms to address the sexual health needs of aging couples, and to discuss key aspects in couple-focused care. Methods An online meeting attended by 5 European experts in sexual health was carried out in June 2023 to discuss the topic. The conversation centered on their clinical experience and expert opinion. Additionally, the indexed literature was reviewed to endorse and complement the expert opinions obtained in the aforementioned meeting. Results Midlife men and women face physical, psychological, and sociocultural changes that affect their sexual activity. These changes may be experienced differently between genders. Both members of a couple may experience age-related changes concurrently or in an unsynchronized manner affecting their sexual health. Communication, sharing expectations, defining sexual dynamics, and couple goals are determinant for the sexual health of a midlife couple. Couplepause and doublepause are 2 new complementary paradigms that effectively address the sexual health needs of aging couples as a unit, considering physical, psychological, cultural, social, and dyadic-related factors. Couple-centered strategies should promote open communication about couple intimacy issues, understanding the diverse expectations according to gender and orientation, communication styles, and goals. The following are identified as crucial aspects to promote couple-focused care: education and training of health care professionals, the provision of information to aging couples, physician involvement in addressing sexual problems, the need for collaboration across medical specialties, and the development of effective tools and strategies. Conclusions The sexual problems of aging couples should be managed following couple-centered strategies that effectively address their sexual health needs as a couple.