Erectile disorder and the elderly: An analysis of the case for funding

Increasing therapeutic options available for the treatment of erectile disorder and the earlier identification of the problem in elderly patients has led to an increase in demand for treatment. While a decline in sexual function and desire can be expected with increasing age, little information exists on normal levels of sexual activity in the UK in the elderly male patient. One hundred consecutive unselected urological patients over 60 awaiting urlogical surgery were interviewed in detail to determine their sexual function. Results show an average age of 70 with 35% having had sex within the past year. Fifty-four percent of patients aged between 60 and 69 who had partners had had sex within the last two months. Twenty-nine percent had complete erectile failure while 9% were dissatisfied with their sex lives. We have shown that while sexual function decreases with age a significant percentage of patients over 60 remain sexually active. Although the vast majority are happy with their sex lives 9% ...