As modern medicine evolves, the discourse surrounding sexual health, particularly in men, is becoming increasingly essential in understanding holistic well-being. In a recent episode of “Mind My Age” presented by Total Life, host Neelam Brar engaged in an enlightening conversation with Dr. Elliot Justin. A medical doctor specializing in emergency medicine and an expert in men’s health, Dr. Justin shared profound insights on the pivotal role sexual health plays in aging gracefully.
Exploring Men’s Sexual Health
Dr. Justin, who described himself as feeling 71, kicked off the engaging discussion by sharing a deeply personal element of his life that contributes to his vitality: “I try to make love to my wife every day… we both regard it as the key to our very, very happy marriage.” His approach is based not only on personal experience but also on scientific data. Studies show that regular sexual activity can significantly reduce stress hormones, improve cardiovascular health, and bolster overall mental well-being.
The Overlooked Aspects of Sexual Health
Despite the known benefits, there remains a cultural and clinical negligence in addressing sexual health. “We doctors fail our patients by not making any recommendations about sex,” Dr. Justin pointed out. In the medical field, while there’s an emphasis on diet and exercise, discussions around sex are often absent, even though they are crucial to our quality of life.
Addressing Medication Side Effects
One of the critical themes Dr. Justin highlighted was the overlooked side effects of common medications on sexual health. Antidepressants and antihypertensives can dampen libido and performance. Dr. Justin advised men to be proactive, suggesting that “patients need to manage their care in this area because it’s just, there’s so much ignorance.” 
Technology and Sexual Health
Introducing modern solutions, Dr. Justin discussed the role of his innovative Tech Ring. “People need data,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of objective measures to monitor sexual health. The Tech Ring tracks nocturnal erections, providing data that can be discussed with healthcare providers to customize and optimize treatment.
Sex and Aging: A Defensive Strategy
The dialogue also unveiled how active sexual health acts as a line of defense against aging. Regular sexual activity can reduce cardiovascular risks and improve mental health. It’s not merely about intimacy but maintaining a high quality of life as one ages. Philip Ayles would remark, “Sexual fitness is just as paramount as any other aspect of health. We should foster openness and understanding.”
Societal Norms and Changing Perceptions
Dr. Justin highlighted a striking disparity in the use of sexual aids between gay and straight men. He stressed reframing the narrative from “need” to “want,” advocating for the normalization of aids like erection rings, similar to how vibrators have become mainstream for women. It’s about enhancing pleasure and confidence for both individuals and their partners. 
A Call for Communication and Education
In closing, Dr. Justin called for better communication between partners and healthcare providers. Sex should not be a taboo topic but rather a celebrated component of a healthy life. “Physicians and patients need to break the silence around sexual health,” Neelam Brar echoed. This dialogue serves as a reminder that sexual health is a cornerstone of well-being and should be embraced with openness and pride.
As Dr. Justin’s insights reveal, understanding and fostering sexual health is not just about intimacy but is a significant factor in healthy aging. For individuals navigating the complexities of aging, it’s clear that attention to sexual health can lead to a more vibrant and fulfilling life.
