London: Veteran Hollywood actress Jane Fonda had recently attributed her youthful appearance to her healthy libido. Now, she is backed by scientists who have found that active sex life can help elderly women cope with ageing.
Researchers at the University of California San Diego found that elderly women who enjoyed an active sex life had a better quality of life, and were healthier and happier.
This holds true even as the actual level of sexual activity declines with age, found the researchers who looked women aged between 60 and 89, the Daily Telegraph reported.
This had an effect on their perceived quality of life, said study author Professor Wesley Thompson.
Prof Thompson said: "Contrary to our earlier hypothesis, sexual satisfaction was not significantly associated with age.
"Although the levels of sexual activity and functioning did vary significantly, depending on the woman's age, their perceived quality of life, successful ageing and sexual satisfaction remained positive.
"What this study tells us is that many older adults retain their ability to enjoy sex well into old age.
"This is especially true of older adults who maintain a higher level of physical and mental health as they grow older.
"Furthermore, feeling satisfied with your sex life -- whatever your levels of sexual activity -- is closely related to your perceived quality of life."
He added: "While we cannot assess cause and effect from this study, these results suggest that maintaining a high level of sexual satisfaction may positively reinforce other psychological aspects of successful ageing."
Fonda, 73, has recently admitted to taking testosterone hormones to keep her libido from waning.
"Here's something I haven't said publicly yet: I discovered testosterone about three years ago, which makes a huge difference if you want to remain sexual and your libido has dropped," the double Oscar-winning actress had revealed in an interview.
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