Single Aussies over 50 are far more likely than younger people to rely on alcohol to give them “Dutch courage” when going on a date, according to a new survey on alcohol and its effects on sex and social life.

Driven by a high divorce rate and a lack of self confidence, older boomers were taking risks that are as “dangerous as drink driving” when it comes to safe sex, therapists are warning.

According to WA Today nearly one in three 50-55 year-olds said they couldn’t imagine dating without a drink compared to less than one in ten 20-30 year-olds.

Almost 75 per cent of respondents claimed sex is better sober but older Australians are reaching for the bottle and are waking up with more than a hangover the morning after.

Going Too Far

More than a quarter of those over the age of 40 admitted doing something they wish they didn’t while dating because they drank too much.

Embarrassments included falling over or “going too far” sexually.

Sexologist and relationship expert Dr Nikki Goldstein said that the high divorce rate and lack of self-confidence were contributing factors to baby boomers drinking more in social and sexual scenarios.

“We are dating a lot older now, there are a lot of people out there who have been divorced two or three times over, it’s very scary for some people,” she told WAtoday.com.au.

Confidence in a Bottle

“With the high divorce rate and a lot of people returning to the dating scene later in life there is not enough support in terms of single people and their confidence, so they are turning to the bottle to help them on first dates to make them feel a bit sexier and more confident.”

According to the Kings Cross based sexpert, Australia’s relationship with alcohol is poisoning potential partnerships and the healthy exploration of sexuality.

She added for people of all ages, dating while under the influence is as dangerous as drink driving.

“When you are intoxicated, safe sex is one of the biggest problems. People have enough issues putting on a condom when they’re sober, add alcohol into the mix and it’s unlikely they can do it or even do it right. Half of them can’t even remember in the morning what has happened.”

Men At Particular Risk

According to Australian Medical Association WA president David Mountain “The ability to handle and process alcohol deteriorates both mentally and physically with age. For men especially, too much alcohol can lead to a lack of fertility and a lack of desire,” he said.

“As people get older they probably think they can still manage as well as they did in the past but I’m afraid the evidence is that it’s not true.”

The survey was released to coincide with the launch of Febfast, which encourages people to give up alcohol and fundraise for the month of February to support programs aimed at young people who are dealing with drug and alcohol problems.

image source: spiritualwellbeing.com

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About the author

Jenny W