Silver Sparks
Silver Sparks
Silver Sparks: Supporting Sexual Wellbeing and Pleasure in Older Adults – Highlights from Geriatric Teaching Day 2025
On June 13, 2025, Dr. Pebble Kranz delivered an enthusiastically received presentation, “Silver Sparks: Supporting Sexual Wellbeing and Pleasure in Older Adults,” as part of the URMC’s Geriatric Teaching Day. The session drew approximately 50 nurses, physicians, and clinicians serving older adults in both inpatient and outpatient settings, reflecting the growing recognition of sexual health as a vital component of quality of life for aging populations.
Dr. Kranz’s presentation addressed the often-overlooked importance of sexual wellbeing in older adults, emphasizing that sexuality and intimacy remain essential for emotional connection, cognitive stimulation, and overall health throughout the lifespan. Attendees learned that while physical, psychological, and social changes can impact sexual health with age, many barriers—such as lack of a partner, health conditions, agism, and specifically ageism around sexuality—can and should be addressed.
Key topics included:
-
Understanding “Sexspan”: Dr. Kranz introduced the concept of “sexspan”—the period of life with satisfying sexual activity—and its links to healthspan and lifespan. Research shows that maintaining sexual satisfaction can positively affect relationship quality, mental health, and even longevity.
-
Common Challenges: The talk covered physiological changes (like hormone shifts, chronic illness, and medication effects), psychological factors (stress, depression, body image), and social barriers (stigma, communication issues) that can affect sexual wellbeing in older adults.
-
Practical Strategies and Interventions: Dr. Kranz provided practical guidance on managing common issues such as Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM), erectile dysfunction, and the impact of medications. She highlighted evidence-based treatments, including the safe use of local estrogen therapies—even for those with a history of breast cancer—and the role of testosterone therapy for men with hypogonadism and for postmenopausal women with low desire.
Positive feedback from attendees underscored the value of integrating sexual health into geriatric care. Dr. Kranz’s evidence-based, compassionate approach empowered clinicians to better support their patients’ sexual wellbeing, reaffirming that pleasure, intimacy, and connection are ageless pursuits.
