Dr Miriam Stoppard opens up about intimacy in later life

Age UK Barnet welcomed renowned author and TV presenter Dr Miriam Stoppard for a frank and refreshingly honest conversation about sex and intimacy in midlife and beyond. Speaking to a packed hall, Dr Stoppard discussed themes from her new book Sex, Drugs and Walking Sticks and challenged the long‑held belief that desire fades with age.

“We’re all sexual beings until the end,” she told the audience, urging older adults not to assume that pleasure and closeness are out of reach. She shared practical, reassuring advice on learning to appreciate an ageing body and explained that, whether someone has been in a long relationship, is single, or is living with a health condition, “there’s nearly always a solution.”

Her message reflects wider findings from Age UK. Research shows that while three in five over‑50s believe a healthy sex life remains important in later life, 39% feel uncomfortable talking about it. Many older people still assume intimacy naturally declines with age, yet for countless individuals it continues to be a meaningful, comforting and deeply personal part of life. At the same time, factors such as illness, medication, bereavement and disability can all influence how people experience connection.

To help older adults navigate these changes, Age UK has launched a new guide, Sex, Relationships and Intimacy, which covers topics including changes in sexual function, the impact of health conditions, shifting relationships, new partnerships and online dating. Copies are available by calling 0800 169 6565, or you can read it on the Age UK website HERE.

Thanks to Ed Newman for hosting our Pigeon Post Live event with Dr Stoppard and to everyone who came along.