Boomers report the most pleasure

A 2026 Body+Soul Sex Census found baby boomers in their 60s and 70s were the most pleasure-led generation surveyed in Australia, and most likely to express love and deepen intimacy through sex.

“baby boomers in their 60s and 70s were actually the most "pleasure-led" generation surveyed”

Why age brings better sex

Baby boomers have more time, fewer distractions and less performance pressure than younger generations. Many are past demanding career and parenting years and now prioritize quality over quantity.

“Baby boomers often have more time, fewer distractions and less performance pressure than younger generations”

Permission to ask for pleasure

After decades of changing messages about sexuality, baby boomers are now giving themselves permission to ask for what feels good, rather than following rigid scripts from their youth.

Beyond intercourse as the goal

When couples stop treating intercourse as a pass-or-fail test, they unlock a fuller menu of touch: affectionate, sensual, playful and erotic. This broader approach tends to be more consistently pleasurable.

“Once a couple lets go of intercourse as the only 'real' sex, they broaden into what [Dr. Barry] McCarthy calls the full range of touch”

Age-related challenges are common

Sixty-six percent of surveyed baby boomers said age impacted their sexual performance, and thirty-nine percent cited health-related changes. The good news is these challenges have manageable solutions.

Joint pain and low energy

Arthritis, chronic illness and medications like antidepressants or blood pressure drugs can reduce energy and desire. Side-lying or seated positions reduce strain, and pillows provide support.

“Arthritis and joint pain can make certain positions uncomfortable, chronic illness can reduce energy and common medications can blunt desire”

Arousal takes longer now

Blood flow and nerve sensitivity change with age, so arousal may take considerably longer and need more direct, sustained touch. This is not low desire, just a different timeline.

“what used to arouse you in a minute may now take considerably longer and need more direct, sustained touch”

Vaginal dryness after menopause

Declining estrogen reduces natural lubrication and thins vaginal tissue, making intercourse uncomfortable. Using lube proactively, extended foreplay and vaginal moisturizers help manage this condition.

“After menopause, declining estrogen reduces natural lubrication and makes vaginal tissue thinner, less stretchy and more easily irritated”

Use your voice in bed

Initiate, ask for what you want and actively guide your partner's touch rather than waiting to be pleased. Taking an active role boosts your own arousal and helps your partner understand your needs.

“Initiate, ask for what you want and actively guide your partner's touch rather than waiting to be pleased”

Masturbation and fantasy matter

Masturbating regularly, whether alone or with a partner, and exploring sexual fantasies keeps you connected to your own arousal and desire throughout your life.

Talk to your doctor

If medications are affecting your arousal, ask your prescribing doctor about alternatives. For persistent low desire, ask about treatments like Addyi or Vyleesi.