Senior dating is lot’s of fun but it can also be a breeding ground for STDs. Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) or Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) can be contracted at any age. There are many domains in dating including sex which is why it is always advisable to get tested. Since we are a bit older, we may think that STDs are not important but they are. Younger daters are constantly being told about the consequences of unprotected sex and STIs but how many of their seniors are taking their own advice?
The world you may have grown up in did not include seniors getting back into the dating arena after divorce and death. Now in 2010, senior dating has become more accessible and acceptable in the public eye. You cannot even turn on the television without sex being plastered all over commercials, movies and television series. Even drugs, like Viagra, are helping the older dating generations to keep it up and have a pleasing sexual life. Therefore, it is no secret that seniors are doing the deed, but are they getting tested?
Many seniors have never been educated in some of the forefront diseases that affect our society such as Chlamydia, Hepatitis B and C, Genital Herpes and HIV/ AIDS. During the 40s, 50s, 60s and even 70s, speaking about and educating children and teens was taboo. Adults did not even speak about these diseases nor their consequences. Now, learning about sexual education is mandated in schools all across the world because of its grave importance.
There are many reasons why many seniors shy away from using condoms and speaking to their doctors. Where pregnancy once was a cause to wear a condom, having sexual relations with a woman who has gone through menopause, means that pregnancy will no longer be an issue. However, an STD will always be a cause for concern because you are never too old to catch one. Visiting the doctor can also be intimidating for the senior daters since most doctors will be younger than themselves and speaking about sex to an equivalent of their son or grandson can leave one with quite a bit of shame.
If you are engaging in senior dating then you should get tested for an STI or STD once a year, regardless of whether or not you have symptoms. Wearing a condom can be extremely effective for a senior who wants to prevent catching a disease. Let dating stay fun and fresh no matter your age but make sure you stay responsible by getting tested.
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