5 Reasons The Sex Toy Market Is Failing The Needs Of Seniors
Yes, older women want pleasure, too!
Sex toys are quite popular these days, but there are a few challenges that people over the age of 50 may be having with them. First, let’s get past the old myth that age has anything to do with one’s sexuality. Seniors are usually open to sex toys and have a healthy sexual desire. In fact, most people find their desire for sex and involvement in sexual activity continue as they age.
However, there are a few issues seniors are having when it comes to buying sex toys.
Here are 5 issues that seniors might run into when buying sex toys:
1. Sex toys are getting more technologically advanced and confusing.
Sex toys have been getting more and more advanced, and it is not uncommon to find such high-tech features as Bluetooth compatibility, multiple speeds, various functions, and remote controls that can be operated through your smartphone — not to mention the apps that allow users to create specialized vibration settings.
With basic knowledge in technology required for some of these new adult novelties, many seniors are finding it overwhelming when trying to find just a simple, quality sex toy. Often, they are left more confused when pursuing them than when they began.
2. New toys often require USB ports to charge them.
Many sex toys no longer feature the old fashioned batteries and plug-in chargers and are coming with USB charging technology.
They are less expensive than plug-in chargers to produce and they allow manufacturers to make only one model rather than having to do various models for different electrical outlets outside of the USA. However, many seniors who order sex toys are sometimes surprised when their sex toy arrives with a USB cord and may be unsure of how they are supposed to charge it.
While USB charging is becoming more common across all industries, it can leave some seniors wondering how they get a USB adapter or even what one is.
3. They're not often ergonomic.
With new technology allowing sex toys to be more compact and artistic in design it sometimes means not being easy to hold especially for those who have arthritis or mobility issues.
There are some sex toy holders and pillows that can help hold toys in place, but those seniors who have such concerns may find it difficult to know how much trouble they might have holding or maneuvering a sex toy without having to buy it first.
4. Their designs can be confusing.
With many of the new sex toys looking more and more like sculptures and less like the human anatomy, it can be difficult for seniors to get an idea of what goes where and how a sex toy is going to stimulate themselves and/or their partner.
Some retail descriptions offer a lot of hype but fail to explain how sex toys specifically work, what parts stimulate the body and instructions on how to use a product.
5. Sex terminologies have changed.
With sex toy retailers using terms like "dils" instead of dildos or phalluses, and "love rings" instead of "c*ckrings" or "penis rings," some seniors are having a hard time catching up with the terminology that is being used. Many are not aware that some sex toys contain toxins and why the terms body-safe and phthalate free are so important.
With changing terminology, it can make it difficult for seniors to articulate what type of products they are looking for let alone understand what is available to them.
One beneficial change in the modern era, however, is senior sex toy support!
On the bright side, with sexual wellness education available through quality sex educators, it is easy for seniors to find helpful articles and customer service representatives to become educated about these topics and learn how sex toys can not only provide pleasure but also increase sexual health and intimacy with their partner.
Lisa S. Lawless, Ph.D. is the founder and C.E.O. of Holistic Wisdom, Inc. which provides sexual health and wellness education, resources and products. To learn more about what are the latest developments in nontoxic sex toys and sex toys for seniors topics visit HolisticWisdom.com