Impotence effects both men and women, but for men it is more obvious as they have difficulty attaining or maintaining an erection. Women most often experienced impotence as an inability to lubricate.
Physical things such as diabetes, low testosterone, or estrogen imbalance can cause impotence, as can some antidepressants. However psychological issues such as feeling under pressure from one’s partner or a sense of ‘performance anxiety’ can be just as debilitating. This is especially true for men (we’ve all heard crude jokes about guys who ‘can’t get it up’!) Conflicts about sex, including anxiety, guilt, and fear may also be part of the problem.
Ageing certainly effects sexual desire and performance but it doesn’t necessarily preclude it! After 50, sexual functioning may diminish or change. Men are likely to find themselves worried about their ability to perform whereas women are more likely to be concerned that they are no longer so attractive. Working with a competent, sympathetic therapist can help you to find ways of enjoying sexual fulfilment despite the challenges of aging.