Product reviews for Sex and Love at Midlife

This book by the Californian therapist, Bernie Zilbergeld, stands out for its easy-to-read conversational style, and common sense approach to discussing sexual life after the age of 45. The good news is that Dr Zilbergeld's research shows that, contrary to popular belief, sex continues to improve through middle age and beyond, and can remain satisfying for both men and women even into their 90's. He deals with the physical changes of ageing and emotional issues, and cites several case histories to support his contention that a loving sexual relationship and orgasm do not have to disappear in old age and that the -˜barriers' of physical disabilities or other health problems may be able to be overcome if people discuss these with their doctor or therapist. As Dr Zilbergeld says, couples need to “talk openly about the issues” and show “flexibility about possible solutions”. He describes the differences between the groups he calls Lovers (ie couples who have mutually satisfying sex lives) and Non-lovers (those who have unsatisfactory or problematic sex lives), and supports his analysis with excerpts from interviews with people from each of these two groups. One of the key points he brings out is the importance of having a good and close emotional relationship, where partners care about each other's well being, talk and make time for each other.

In summary, this is an enjoyable and informative read for everyone, health professionals, psychotherapists, and the general public, of whatever age.