Whether you're looking for a special gift for a loved one, for the two (or more) of you, or for your own private pleasure, here are some recommendations to put a sexy, satisfied smile on your or your giftee's face.
If you think your gift won't arrive in time, blame it on me for getting this Gift Guide out so late. Write a note about your intentions and welcome in the New Year when it arrives. (Or email me and I'll hand write the note for you, scan it, and email it back to you.)
Best of 2016
Two of our favorites have new updates:
The Pulse III for penis pleasure has arrived from Hot Octopuss, and it's better than ever. Now you can go from any level straight to "Turbo Mode." An anti-stall sensor prevents any pressure from interfering with the vibrations. The Duo partner's experience has been improved. And now it charges magnetically. Every penis owner that I know who has tried any version of the Pulse has loved it, especially because no erection is required. I appreciate that as good as it is, Hot Octopuss keeps improving this penis pleaser. Read this review of the Pulse I and II and this one of the Pulse Solo and Duo II from our contest winners. Order the new one here.
Do you own a Sybian? If you do, check out these two new silicone attachments to ride into orgasm: Triple Delight has soft clitoral and anal stimulating bumps at either end of a penetrative G-spotter. (Yes, you can have it all.) The Silky Smooth Flat Top is for you if you prefer your vibrations without penetration -- use it in either direction and put the bump wherever you want it. If you're unfamiliar with the glorious Sybian, read my review here (notice the discount code!) and learn about other silicone attachments here.
Rumble
Here are some special sex toys that I reviewed in 2016, with quotes from these reviews and links to the full reviews:
Rumble. "Do you want a vibrator that's well-designed, well-made, body-safe, and fairly strong -- with a truly ergonomic shape, size, and weight? A solution if you have wrist arthritis or any condition that makes it difficult to grip or hold up a wand vibrator for as long as it takes to get the job done."
Doxie Die Cast
Doxie Die Cast. "Strong as in lie-back-and-it'll-happen strong, even if your orgasms usually take a lot of effort. If you like a high intensity clitoral vibrator, this power tool will sing to you in great, rumbly, throbby tones."
Prism V
L'Amourose Prism V. "A curvaceous work of art that happens to be a deep, strong, and rumbly g-spot vibrator. The shape and faceted design are lovely, and it's easy to hold."
Womanizer
Womanizer W500. "It's the suction. It doesn't just vibrate (though it does do that) -- it gently pulls on the clitoris, bringing blood flow, engorgement, and increased sensation. It's not 'sucking' like a vacuum -- it's subtle, but oh so effective and pleasurable."
New Kids in Town
Here are couple of new products that might strike your fancy. I haven't written full reviews of these, but they deserve mention here:
Funkit. (Yes, that's an "n," not a "c," though the logo with the "n" on its side makes you look twice.) This beautiful silicone dildo aims to please, whether you use it vaginally or anally. The end is a suction cup, so you have even more options for play. Check out Funkit's website for many more dildo designs that show you that sex and art can be a lovely couple. They also make butt plugs, spanking paddles, and textured rings for your pleasure-giving finger.
O-Wand. Big and heavy -- 1.6 pounds and 13 inches long -- this elegant, powerful, silicone vibrator is curved with an ergonomic handle so you can hold it in different ways and even rest it on your body. It comes in a huge (17"), fancy box, includes a nubby cap accessory and a set of charger adapters for different countries. There's no pouch, though, which is strange considering its high price. It's completely waterproof, so you can take it in the tub with you. (I recommend not taking it in the shower, because if you drop 1.6 pounds on your foot, it could be serious.) Get 15% off with the discount code "BETTER15" -- just for our readers.
Stocking Stuffers
Überlube: When you want to feel a gliding sensation of skin on skin, this luxurious silicone lubricant delivers. Long-lasting for our slow-burning older bodies, slick for our delicate tissues, and a clear favorite of mine. Available in an elegant glass bottle or a refillable travel case.
Wicked: Want to smell and taste like a candy apple, cinnamon bun, or salted caramel? Wicked has a delightful collection of flavored lubricants, most of then water-based. Buy them at SheVibe,
Lucky Bloke: For the best selection of condoms, Lucky Bloke has you covered -- so to speak. Take their simple test to make sure you're wearing the right size condom, then order some sampler kits and try different brands. Lucky Bloke also offers lubricant samplers.
And for that Big Sex Organ Between Your Ears...
Of course it would make me very happy if you got your giftee or yourself one of my senior sex books -- the gifts that keep on giving. A good choice for a holiday gift is Ageless Erotica, a ground-breaking anthology by talented writers over 50 featuring steamy, sexy characters over 50 (sometimes decades over 50). Ageless Erotica presents sexy seniors enjoying and sharing their erotic moments in short stories and memoir essays . And while you're looking at my books, how about giving your sweetie or yourself one of my self-help senior sex books for the new year?
Not for sale, but just to make you smile...
This kitten is Bobby Joe, a new member of my household. He is trying very hard to take on the role of resident sex kitten.
If you're over 60, 70 and beyond, how did sex misinformation and the lack of a decent sex education form your attitude about sex? What did you have to learn or unlearn to become the person you are today?
I'll start. I was born in 1943. This was my sex education:
When I was in junior high, my school's gender-segregated sex education program was comprised of a filmstrip showing drawings of the reproductive system (no clitoris to be found) and a lecture about menstruation -- why it happens, what to expect. I recall nothing about why people might choose to have sex!
When I was a young teenager, my sex education was a pamphlet handed to me by my father, an obstetrician/gynecologist, explaining how the sperm fertilized the egg -- but nothing about how the sperm got to the egg, and nothing about arousal or pleasure.
When I was an older teenager, my father told me, "The best birth control is a dime -- held firmly between the knees." He did not want me to end up like some of my classmates who came to his office for a pregnancy test and later were shipped off to have the baby somewhere and give it up for adoption. These were the days before legal abortion.
The summer before I started college, my grandmother told me, "Don't ever let a boy have his way with you! If you do, he'll never marry you. After all, why buy the cow when you can get the milk free?" I was already having sex with my high school boyfriend.
During my freshman year in college, my father found out that I was having sex with my high school boyfriend. My parents declared that I was never to see him alone again, only supervised by my parents or his. So I learned how to lie to my parents.
Home for the summer after my freshman year in college, I feared I was pregnant. Rather than risk going to a local doctor who would know my family and inform my father, my former boyfriend and I drove 50 miles so that I could use a fake name and not be recognized. I never told my parents about this.
How did my lack of sex education inform my later attitudes and behavior? Fortunately, I was a rebel. You wouldn't have guessed that looking at me. I behaved in school, dressed like a "good girl," studied hard and got good grades, and mostly kept my divergent views to myself. But sexually, I rebelled. Thanks to my [lack of] sex education in high school, I thought I had discovered sexual passion -- surely no one else knew about this! I loved getting excited, even though I wouldn't have my first orgasm until sophomore year in college. That was one more casualty of my [lack of] sex education -- we didn't know anything about the clitoris and its role in female orgasm. Heck (I laugh to find myself falling into the language of the times!), we didn't know anything about female orgasm, except that some women were "frigid" and it was their own fault and they should fix it.
But enough about me. How about you? What are the things you were taught -- or not taught -- that make you shake your head in disbelief now? If you're over 60, please comment. Use whatever invented first name you want, but please include your real age. If you're under 50, please stay and read the comments -- this is the life we led. This is how we learned (or didn't learn) about sex. These are the barriers we had to overcome.
Speaking of barriers, who remembers the childhood game Red Rover? "Red Rover, Red Rover, we dare Joanie to come over!" -- is that how it went? The person who was summoned would race to the line of locked hands and try to break through. As tiny as I was (6th grade nickname: Mighty Mouse), I always succeeded because I barreled through any obstacle with little fear of consequence. I guess in my small way, I'm still doing that!
August 26, 2016: So here's how this contest happened. I have been a fan of the Pulse penis vibrator since late 2013, when I first learned how it enhances sex for penises, with or without an erection. Since that time, I've raved about it, along with my other favorites, at my presentations. During one of these, a man raised his hand and asked, “Do you need another Pulse tester?”
The audience and I laughed, but then I started thinking: At our age, especially, we have such divergent sexual needs and challenges. What if I did enlist the help of some carefully selected assistants to review the new Pulse II Solo and Duo? I asked Hot Octopuss, creator of the Pulse, whether they'd sponsor a contest. We were on!
The deal was that potential Pulse reviewers would enter my contest, describing why they wanted, needed, and deserved a free Pulse II. They would promise me an honest review if they won. I chose three winners out of many fine entries. Now that they've had time to test and retest their prizes (thanks, guys!), here are their reviews. Enjoy!
Boone
When erectile dysfunction struck me a few years ago I was in denial. I blamed stress, tiredness, just about anything I could think of. I finally had to admit to myself as well as to my partner of 10 years that what was happening was erectile dysfunction.
She took the threat to my heart health seriously and encouraged me go to the doctor. As difficult as it I found talking to someone about such a deeply personal issue. I am glad I went. The doctor informed me I had a high level of bad cholesterol and high blood pressure that needed to be controlled through medication. The good doctor also offered pharmaceutical options for my ED. I decided to pass on that, based on the adverse side effects.
My partner also went searching online for other alternatives to help my ED and found Joan Price’s book, Naked at Our Age. After reading the book and some of Joan’s blog, she decided to introduce sex toys into the bedroom. She also began encouraging me to view sex as not always having to lead to penetration.
Before the Pulse Duo I hadn’t tried a vibrating sex toy targeted specifically at men. I was a bit skeptical of this odd shaped silicone contraption. I had only used silicone c-rings and experimented with applying my partner’s electric vibrating wand to my soft penis. I found these pleasurable and helpful in my struggle with ED.
The Pulse II Duo was more than I could have hoped for. I love that I can easily enjoy sexual pleasure while not being fully erect. The design of the toy is key, open on one side and you can lay your flaccid penis within it. The Duo is equipped with a variety of speeds and oscillating patterns. The vibrating or oscillating circular part (the pulse plate) feels wonderful as you move it up and down the shaft. It feels exceptionally good on the sensitive glans head and its ridge. You or your partner can control the level of friction just by squeezing tightly or releasing. Using lube or going without also can change friction and sensation.
I found that most times I was quickly able to get fully erect from the pleasurable sensations I enjoyed from the Pulse II, and it always helped me achieve a powerful orgasm. The Pulse is a quality product that could be a Godsend to any man, but especially those who are struggling with ED.
The Pulse II Duo is marketed as a couple’s toy and comes with a remote control for the vibrating underside. This extra vibration area stimulates the partner of the person wearing the Duo. The remote controls the strength of the vibrations. This is a nice and thoughtful touch.
My partner and I tried using the Pulse II Duo in the missionary position. Unfortunately, although she found the Duo’s vibrations enjoyable, they were just not powerful enough to bring her to orgasm.
Neither one of us let this small disappointment take away from the high I was feeling from my new found confidence. We experimented with simultaneous masturbation. I use the Pulse Duo and she uses her wand. It’s a new aspect of our sexuality to watch the other self-pleasuring, and we both find it highly erotic.
I have a new confidence in the bedroom now. My partner and I have always enjoyed the sexual aspect of our relationship and I was so afraid of losing her to a man who could satisfy her. I now realize these fears were unfounded and just my insecurities at work. I am beginning to fully embrace the reality that sex does not have to equal penetration. There are so many other sensual pleasures to indulge in. I just wish it hadn’t taken me 52 years to figure this out.
Jeff
The Pulse II was designed for men like me. I have had low testosterone and taken hormone supplements since my mid-thirties. Now, at 55, I also have high blood pressure and high cholesterol. As a result, my erections are weaker and easily lost without the right kind of ongoing stimulation. Male stroker toys never worked well for me -- a sleeve of squishy artificial flesh didn’t keep me hard.
My first impression of the Pulse’s design was its alien yet elegant aesthetic. If I didn’t know it was a sex toy, I might expect to see it as a prop on Star Trek. It features black curved contours, expandable wings that wrap around the penis (whether soft or hard), and ridges that stimulate its underside. Most important is the pulse plate, roughly the diameter of a quarter, positioned to provide direct stimulation to the sensitive spot at the frenulum of the penis. The pulse plate generates an oscillating vibration to the frenulum in a way that both generates an erection and provokes a climax.
Two sets of controls operate the Pulse. On the left is a power button that also changes the pulse pattern. Holding that button for over a second toggles the power on or off. Shorter taps on that button change the stimulation from a simple steady vibration to one of five additional pulsing patterns. On the right side are + and – buttons that increase and decrease the vibration speed and intensity through nine levels. Unique to the Duo model is an additional vibrator on the underside of the unit, positioned to stimulate a partner. A small remote control disc activates that vibrator through three speed settings.
Use of the Pulse seems intuitively obvious. Just place your penis, whether erect or flaccid, in the Pulse, turn it on, and away you go. In practice, however, it does have its challenges. The Pulse is neither fish nor fowl. It is not a stroking sleeve that simulates the feel of human skin. Nor is it a vibrator that can be easily positioned to directly stimulate exactly where you want it to. It requires a bit of experimentation to find the right positioning, speed, and movement to provide satisfying stimulation.
The buttons require a frustrating amount of pressure to operate. Most settings for both pulse patterns and vibration speeds weren’t very arousing – more like a mild tickling sensation. In my first use, I was a bit disappointed until, like Goldilocks, I finally found that “just right” speed. The Pulse then rocketed me to a climax in just a couple of minutes, before my erection had even completely hardened.
The Pulse can be used with lube, but I prefer the more intense direct stimulation I get without. I tried the different pulse patterns, but for me none were as arousing as the default constant vibration. Some speed settings were too slow and mild, and others were too fast and numbing, but a few in between were “just right.”
The Pulse can also be a hands-free device, producing a climax with no manual stroking or additional stimulation needed. However, I found those orgasms less powerful and not very satisfying. I get a truly intense orgasm from slowing down just before crossing the finish line, and letting the energy and anticipation build for several seconds. Then, when I can’t hold back any more, the release is an explosive climax. When using the Pulse in a hands-off manner, though, there is no slowing to build anticipation and energy. Instead, it propels you constantly, inexorably, straight to the goal and across the line without any change in speed or intensity.
I prefer taking some hands-on control. Just a slight stroking motion, or a change in vibration speed at the right time (in spite of the hard-to-press buttons), can provide enough variation to generate a truly powerful climax.
As a toy for couples, my partner Christine found the Pulse less innovative. Its hard, smooth surface felt cold to her at first, and she was disappointed at the lack of options in the underside vibrator. It only cycles through three basic speeds, with no oscillation or pulsing patterns. We experimented with a few different positions. Most enjoyable was a pseudo-missionary position, with me kneeling between her legs and positioning the Pulse on top of her clitoris. I could take control of the speed of the underside vibrator with the remote control disc, while enjoying the separate oscillations of the pulse plate against my penis. With some foreplay for her before applying the Pulse, we were able to enjoy a near simultaneous orgasm.
In conclusion, the Pulse is not quite the ultimate male toy. But it is a very effective and stimulating solution for men who can’t always maintain a solid erection. At the right setting, it can quickly bring you from flaccid to climax in just a few minutes. With experimentation and practice, it can also be a gratifying, versatile toy for both solo and couple play.
Tom
I am 64 and my wife is 63. We have been together for over 40 years and enjoy our sex life. I was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2009 and had my prostate removed with robotic laparoscopy. I have recovered well, however, I do need Levitra for intercourse. I find that even with an erection, it sometimes takes me a very long time to orgasm. This can be difficult for my wife trying to stimulate me. Sometimes it takes so long that my erection is no longer firm, and I need an even greater level of stimulation.
The Pulse seemed like something we could use together to stimulate me to orgasm. Could it produce an erection and orgasm even without Levitra? We typically needed to plan our intimate times at least an hour in advance for Levitra to take full effect. If the Pulse worked without a pill, I hoped we could be more spontaneous – and it wouldn’t tire my wife!
I received the Pulse II Solo and easily understood the controls. The USB charger worked well and had a full charge in just a couple of hours.
The first time using the Pulse, I took Levitra and allowed it to work. Then my wife and I tried using it to stimulate my erection. The vibration felt very good but was numbing after a few minutes. We then tried the pulsation patterns. These were better because the patterns of pulse and pause allowed for less numbing. The vibrations felt good, but did not lead to orgasm. However, we did continue and had intercourse after we played around with the Pulse II, so the stimulation was helpful.
One issue was that I needed to move the Pulse II around to keep the vibrations focused on the right area. I was hoping that it would provide vibrations and my wife could just hold it in a good position and it would work its magic, but it needed more repositioning. The other issue is that this unit is loud. I think that put us off a bit. We have vibrators, but they are much quieter.
The next time, I tried the Pulse II alone, without taking Levitra. It gave me a good erection. After a bit of trying different pulse patterns and moving it to keep it in the right spot, I had a satisfying orgasm. I find it easier to work holding it myself because I can more easily move it to control the response. I found that the pulsing patterns were very helpful with keeping it from numbing me the way continuous vibration did.
Based on the way the Pulse gave me an erection without Levitra, I feel confident that we’ll be able to use it for partner sex as a means of stimulating me to erection without medication. And it is definitely good for solo sex. We will continue to explore its capabilities!
* * *
Many thanks to Hot Octopuss for the prizes! Please support them by checking out their website and ordering your Pulse II from them directly if you decide you want this guybrator on your team. Thank you, Boone, Jeff, and Tom, for your detailed and thoughtful reviews. I know you'll help others. Pulse on!
Sex: there's so much to learn! These well-written, 2016 non-fiction books present new information, helpful tips, and provocative points of view that you'll find illuminating. These books make great holiday gifts -- buy them in time to read them first!
Inviting Desire: A guide for women who want to enhance their sex life by Walker J. Thornton, is a self-help book of tips, tools, questions, and exercises that help you understand and own your sexuality after the shifts you’ve experienced after menopause. It’s written as a 30-day process to invite desire and sexuality back into your life, and help you examine new ways to think about sexual desire, prepare for sex, understand your own arousal pattern, and accept yourself as a sexual being. Thornton's tone is soft-spoken and intimate, sharing the practices that she has learned along her own journey. "This is about you, your body, and your desire," writes Thornton.
Thornton covers many useful topics in her 30-day journey. You'll learn more about yourself as a sexual being as well as tools for making changes. Although Thornton says, "it's for you, not you and a partner" and the exercises are done independently, the book is geared to women who have partners or partners-to-be. If you're solo, some of the practices won't apply, but you'll still learn new ways to think about your own body, your own desire, and your own pleasure.
Future Sex: A New Kind of Free Love by Emily Witt. Single, in her thirties, and (sometimes) enjoying the hook-up culture, Emily Witt decides to observe and participate in other ways that people enjoy sex. She explores Orgasmic Meditation, the making of porn, sex parties, and Burning Man, for example. If you liked America Unzipped and Secret Sex Lives, you'll enjoy this one, too. Some of Witt's discoveries/conclusions:
"Some experiences you avoid not because you know you don't like them but because you don't want to like them...My aversion to pornography was not because the images didn't stimulate, but because i did not want to be turned on by sex that was not the kind of sex I wanted to have."
"I think if someone were to draw a portrait of the people who were 'ruining Burning Man' it would have looked like us."
"I now understood the fabrication of my sexuality. I saw the seams of its construction and the arbitrary nature of its myths...Just as wanting to fall in love did not manifest love, proclaiming myself 'sexually free' would not liberate me from inhibition."
In Search of My Sexy Old Self: Re-discovering sex after sixty and beyond by Cathy Thomas is a memoir + self-help guide on rediscovering sex with a partner after it has gone dormant. At 71 and 74, Cathy Thomas and her partner had been together 30 years, and for the last decade, sex had stopped for them. They rarely talked about it, and skittishly dropped the subject if it happened to come up. Then Thomas decided to go on a journey, researching whether people were really having sex at their age, and if so, what kind of sex, and why, and how. Her research led her to several authors (among them, me) and websites, and the new knowledge she gained culminated in a rebirth of sex and a new kind of communication and intimacy between Thomas and her partner. The end of each chapter includes "Discovery Tasks" to help you take this journey yourself.
I recommend this well-written and buoyant book especially for readers who want a gentler, more one-step-at-a-time pace in rediscovering their sex lives than I often promote. Whereas I may seem to push you into a "just do it" attitude whether talking to a partner or a doctor or self-pleasuring with sex toys, I know that many of you might appreciate a more gradual approach. This book may be just right for you.
Let’s get one misconception out of the way. Sex without intercourse is still sex. Real sex. Satisfying sex. Hot sex. The idea that only intercourse constitutes “real sex” limits our creativity and our satisfaction.
Sex is any activity that arouses you and brings you sexual pleasure.
So begins "A Senior's Guide to Sex Without Intercourse" which I wrote for Senior Planet. I spell out some reasons why you might want or need sex without penis-in-vagina (PIV), how you might want to explore sexual expression without vaginal penetration, activities to help you prepare for this change, and ways to communicate about it. I hope you'll read it and post your comments there. Let's make that Guide just the beginning of the discussion.
One of the topics I discuss is how to negotiate what you want sexually, whether you've been with your partner for decades or you're just starting to get intimate. I offer these opening statements if you're starting a new relationship and you want to become sexual in ways that do not involve PIV:
I’m very attracted to you. Intercourse is not possible for me, but I’d love to explore all the other ways we can enjoy each other.
I’m excited about where this is leading. Can we explore how to make love to each other without the goal of intercourse?
I have to tell you that we might not be able to have intercourse. But, if you’d enjoy it, I’d love to use my mouth and hand to satisfy you.
Have you negotiated sex without PIV with either a longtime or a new partner? What words did you use to open the conversation? I invite you to post your comments here. (I want everyone including readers in their seventies, eighties, nineties to feel comfortable with the language here, so express yourself candidly but in words that wouldn't get bleeped on network TV.)
Straight people should take from gay people these four magic words: “What are you into?” That question, when two guys are going to have sex, is always asked. When it’s a man and a woman, all too often, consent is granted and then all communication ceases. What’s happening next is assumed: if it’s heterosexual sex, it’s penis in vagina.
We don’t have that default assumption in gay land. When two guys say yes to sex, it’s the beginning of a whole other conversation. Everything has to be discussed and negotiated. Asking “What are you into?” is so empowering, because at that moment, you can rule anything in and anything out. It’s a sexy negotiation. Straight people sometimes say to me, I wish I could have more sex. I say, "You could, if you had a broader definition of sex."
In the Resources section of "A Senior's Guide to Sex Without Intercourse", I recommend several books. To make them easy to find, here they are with direct links to their Amazon pages -- or your local independent bookstore can order them for you.
Aging brings wisdom and experience -- and body image insecurity. Most of us, even if we glory in our sexuality, have misgivings about our ever-expanding wrinkles and sags. Sometimes it takes another pair of eyes -- whether a lover or a photographer -- to show us that our outer beauty matches our inner beauty.
At age 65, then again at age 68, I stripped to lingerie for photo shoots. I learned a lot about myself from these experiences and from viewing and sharing the results. People applauded, praised me for my courage, high-fived me for encouraging others to have their own lingerie shoots. My blog posts about these events quickly drew more viewers than any of my other posts, and they continue to place in the top four all time most popular posts. Many women shared their own experiences and photos, some privately. some publicly. I was happy that my experience had helped to empower others.
I didn't know I would do it again. But in September 2016, I slipped (wrestled?) my 72-year-old body into lovely lingerie provided by Lovehoney.com and smiled at the renowned Los Angeles photographer, Perry Gallagher, who specializes in Boudoir, Fine Art Nude, Fashion, and Wedding photography.
How did this happen? Krista from Lovehoney knew Perry's work and mine. When she learned that I would be in LA for speaking events in September, she offered both the lingerie and the photo shoot.
Krista explained her involvement in the project this way:
Joan is a lovely timeless spirit and I was overjoyed to work with her on a photo shoot and check out some of Lovehoney's newest lingerie styles. I connected her with one of my favorite photographers, Perry Gallagher, to complete the vision.
Joan is not only adorable, she is also breaking down stereotypes that women of a certain age are not considered sexy or sexual. I want people to see that lingerie isn’t just for the young and pert. Lingerie, and sex toys, can enhance your sex life and increase your self-confidence no matter your age, size, shape, or ability.
What was it like to work with Perry? A ton of fun. Perry is a true professional. He knew how to put me at ease with his humor and his appreciation of the female body whatever its shape, size, or age. He give me instructions -- where to turn, where to look, how to arrange various body parts -- including tucking myself back into my bra when breast spillage occurred. The whole time, he clicked away.
I felt completely comfortable with Perry -- except when I worried about him climbing on a ladder to shoot me from above. (I have a fear of heights -- he does not.) It was exciting to be at the center of his rapt attention, I admit that. Much of that excitement was the feeling, "I'm doing this. My 72-year-old body is fine with being photographed in skimpy bits of cloth." It was a truly empowering experience that I'll take with me anytime I fret about a new wrinkle or thigh puff.
Thank you, LoveHoney.com, for sending me the luscious undies and sponsoring this photo shoot. These are the products I'm modeling. Follow the links if you'd like to wear these yourself!
News flash: Lovehoney is offering my readers a 10% discount on everything -- not just lingerie! Follow this link.
Thank you, Perry Gallagher, for these amazing photos and for making the whole experience fun and full of laughter. View Perry's video here:
I would encourage other women of all ages to explore the opportunity to have just this type of experience for yourself: to be photographed and to see the inner beauty that is you, right now, no matter what age you are. Now is a good time.
2/19/17 update: I just announced my first webinars:
"How the Heck Do I Date at This Age?" Sunday, March 5
"Ask Me, I'll Tell You: Talking Out Loud about Sex & Aging" Sat., March 18
To receive info about these and future webinars, subscribe to my newsletter here. Do it now so you don't miss anything!
Let's talk sex by phone or computer! No, I'm not inviting you to have phone sex or webcam sex with me. I'm inviting you to hear a senior sex class and ask your questions -- via teleseminar or webinar.
Background: Many of you ask when I'll be in your area giving a speech or workshop. You want to learn my tips for sexy aging, or negotiate sex with a new partner, or spice up your long-time relationship, or figure out how to get back your desire for sex, or deal with online dating, for example.
I'm sorry, I get so many emails that I can't possibly answer every one. The answers are often in my books, but I know that many of you prefer a different way of learning, or you want more direct and personal answers to your questions. I do travel to give presentations in many cities (see my events schedule here), but I can't be everywhere.
If I'm not going to be in your area, would you be interested in attending a personalized class by phone or online?
That means you'd listen to my class on the phone or watch it on your computer and be able to ask questions and interact in a small group. You would pay a modest fee to attend, which would include a handout.
Here are some sample topics I'm considering offering:
·Why don't I feel sexual desire and what can I do about it?
·Great sex without erections – sex isn’t all about erections, what we and our partners need to understand about giving and receiving pleasure, no erection required.
·Dating at my age – tips and insights for making it fun instead of scary and sad.
·Online dating at my age – avoiding the mistakes that most people make.
·Safer sex – why I need to care about this, tips for talking with a partner. ·Long-term relationships – how to spice it up again, recapturing desire and intimacy.
·Non-monogamy/ polyamory/ friends with benefits – would this work for me?
·Talking to my doctor about my sexual issues: when, why, how?
·Solo sex is real sex – how to stay sexual without a partner.
·Sex toys – do I need them? How do I choose?
Do some of these interest you? If so, here are some questions for you:
Which topics would grab your interest? Examples above, or add your own.
Would you make time for an hour-long class, or would you prefer 30 or 45 minutes?
Would you prefer a teleseminar (via phone only, no computer required, audio only) or a webinar (via computer, audio and video -- you can see me speaking to you and view slides and images)?
Would you be more likely to attend live, with the option of asking your questions, or listen to a recording on your own schedule?
What country, state, time zone do you live in?
You can answer in the comments section here, or -- better -- email me so that I can contact you when I've finalized details. If you want to be on my mailing list for dates and topics, please email me with "online class" in the subject line. I look forward to hearing from you! Update: Thank you for the emails I'm receiving! Clearly you're interested. If you've already emailed me, I'll be on touch. If not, please do! Let me know which topics interest you especially. Write to me here. Subject line: online class. -- Joan
Do you want a vibrator that's well-designed, well-made, body-safe, and fairly strong -- with a truly ergonomic shape, size, and weight? Impossible, you say? Check out The Rumble from Tantus, a solution if you have wrist arthritis or any condition that makes it difficult to grip or hold up a wand vibrator for as long as it takes to get the job done.
I couldn't believe how light the Rumble is to hold: just 6.6 ounces. (For comparison, the Doxy Die Cast, fabulous as it is, weighs almost two pounds.) Tantus describes the Rumble as "featherweight," and I agree. The shape is also unique -- you can hold it in several different ways and it remains easy on the wrist. The silicone head is removable for easy cleaning -- it's even dishwasher safe.
I love the size of the head. The shape is versatile: you can use it flat-headed for all-over vulva sensations, or, if/when you prefer, tilt it so that the edge pinpoints your clitoris. Either way (or changing it up as you go), the sensation is yummy. Although I'm speaking from the point of view of a vulva owner, its use is not restricted to a particular gender -- all Tantus products are gender neutral. (I'd love to hear from you about how your penis enjoys it.)
The controls are large, easy to see (they even light up), and even if your hand is closed over them, you're not likely to press a button accidentally. Some vibrators are annoying because either any light touch turns the darn thing off, or the opposite, you have to use uncomfortable pressure. The Rumble has it right -- you can touch or glide over the buttons while adjusting how you want to hold it, and you won't accidentally turn it off. When you do want to change the settings, a light, intentional pressure will do it. The power button is placed far away from the "-" and "+" buttons, good thinking.
Is it as strong as the monster king vibrators I tend to prefer, like the Doxy Die Cast, Magic Wand, or Sybian? No, not even close. But for those of you who don't require a turbo power tool to get your orgasm going, you'll prefer the lightweight Rumble for the ergonomic qualities I described. Even if you usually do require mondo stimulation, you might find -- as I did! -- that when you're especially in the mood, this works just dandy.
The Rumble is USB rechargeable and has seven settings -- three intensities and four additional patterns. The vibrations at the lower settings are deep and rumbly, which makes the sensations especially pleasurable, though they do get buzzier with higher speeds. The Rumble is quieter than most wand vibrators.
Tantus is a wonderful company for many reasons. It's owned by one of my favorite sex educators and innovators, Metis Black. Metis spearheaded the silicone sex toy movement in 1997, long before the rest of us were aware of the health repercussions of the materials used in sex toys at that time. Metis values the health of her customers as much as our pleasure, plus she's a delightful, warm person.
If you're into dildos or butt plugs of any size or shape, take a look at the original silicone products created by Tantus. And don't miss the sex ed articles -- pegging, spanking, and how to bring up that sexual itch that's been tickling your brain, for example. Now I've got your attention!
Thank you, Tantus, for the gift of the Rumble in return for an honest review.
I'd love to meet you in person! As events are scheduled, I'll post them here.
I'm currently setting up my schedule for 2017. My suitcase is always packed and I'd love to speak at your event or to your organization. If you are interested, please email me. See more information about my aging and sexuality talks here, and testimonials from clients here.
I also speak about fitness -- click here -- and I'll soon offer non-fiction writing workshops to help you sharpen your skills and create your distinctive style, whether you're writing a blog, an article, or a book.
Subscribe to my occasional newsletter for news, views, and events here. You'll know when I'm visiting your city, and you'll get news of my webinars (online classes) on topics related to senior sex, dating, and relationships.
What’s a webinar, how does it work, and why should you care?
A webinar is an online class. Using a web camera and microphone, I give an information-packed, lively presentation similar to the way I teach when I travel, but you watch online instead of waiting for me to come to your city. You can watch live if it fits your schedule, or watch a video recording of it later. These classes are on topics that you -- my subscribers and readers -- have requested.
If a topic interests you, email me and I’ll send you registration instructions. Once you’ve registered, you’ll get the link where you can watch online. You’ll see me, but no one else will see you -- I know your privacy is important when we’re talking about these intimate issues. You can ask questions by emailing them in advance, by writing them to me during the presentation (sort of like passing me a note), or by talking into your mic if you prefer. So if one of my upcoming webinars interests you, email me with "webinar" as the subject.
I look forward to meeting you -- either in person or online!
In March 2017, I'm presenting workshops in Sebastopol, CA. But it doesn't matter where you live -- I'm also offering webinars which you can watch via your computer from anywhere in the world. Here's my upcoming schedule:
Webinars
How the Heck Do I Date at This Age? Sunday, March 5, 12 noon US Pacific Standard Time*. Dating after 50, 60, 70 and beyond can feel awkward and weird. How do you meet people? Do you need to use online dating? What are the mistakes most people make with their online profile and photos? How do you avoid the pitfalls and creeps? What about rejection? Sex with a new person? Whether you’re widowed, divorced, polyamorous, or a long-time single, this entertaining webinar will be illuminating and practical -- plus you’ll find out how others our age meet and mate.
Ask Me, I'll Tell You: Talking Out Loud about Sex & Aging. Saturday, March 18, 12 noon US Pacific Daylight Savings Time*.Yes, there are challenges to satisfying sex after 50, 60, 70 and beyond – but for every problem, there is a solution. Sex has changed but it can still be spicy and satisfying now and through the years ahead, with the right information, creativity, a spirit of adventure, and a sense of humor. Learn facts and eye-popping tips you won’t learn anywhere else that will put a zing in your sex life, partnered or solo. Bring all the questions you didn’t think you could ask out loud. For singles and couples, all genders, all orientations.
* Your time may vary. For information about registering for one or both of the Webinars, email me. Let me know where you live and whether you'll want to attend live or watch the recording later.
Sebastopol, CA workshops
What Happens Next? Sex? No Sex? Different Sex?Thursday, March 9 (5:45-8pm). If you’re over 50, and you haven’t had partner sex in a while, this workshop is for you. Maybe you’re single: how do you prepare for sex with someone new? Or maybe you’re in a relationship, but the sexual intimacy has fallen away: how do you bring it back? What changes and challenges should you expect from your own body and your partner’s? How do you communicate about your sexual needs, desires, concerns? What about performance anxiety? Body image? Condoms? (what if they interfere with erections?) For singles and couples, all genders, all orientations.
For information about registering for one or both of the Sebastopol workshops, email me with "Sebastopol workshops" as the subject.
May 4 - 7, 2017. New York, NY. Scheduling events soon -- stay tuned. [If you'd like to book Joan during this time, please email.]
May 10, 2017. Talking about Senior Sex: Workshop for medical professionals, therapists, and others working professionally with the older-age population at the Annual NICE Knowledge Exchange (ANKE) conference presented by National Initiative for the Care of the Elderly (NICE), Toronto, Canada. More info coming soon. [If you'd like to book Joan for other events in Toronto May 11 or 12, please email.]
Sun., June 4 and Mon, June 5, 2017.Great Sex Without Penetration and 7 Steps to Reclaiming Your Sexual Pleasure after 50: Two workshops at The Smitten Kitten, 3010 Lyndale Ave S., Minneapolis, MN 55408, 612-721-6088. More info coming soon.
(schedule updated Feb. 17, 2017)
TV, Internet interviews: Online Now
See Joan's recent television interviews here, including Fox News and Bay Sunday:
Recently completed events 2015-2017:
Thurs, Feb. 9, 2017, 5:45-8 pm. How the Heck Do I Date at This Age? at Retrograde Roasters, 130 S. Main St., Sebastopol, CA. Dating after 50 can feel awkward and weird. How do you meet people? Do you need to use online dating? How do you avoid the pitfalls and creeps? What about sex with a new person? Whether you’re widowed, divorced or a long-time single, this entertaining workshop will be illuminating and practical -- plus you’ll find out how others our age meet and mate. Joan Price, author of The Ultimate Guide to Sex after 50 and the award-winning Naked at Our Age, leads the discussion. All genders and orientations welcome. $35 in advance/ $40 at the door. Beverage, appetizers, and sexy freebies included! Registration/questions: email Joan.
Thurs, Sept. 15, 2016: 25 Tips for Sexy Aging!, Pleasure Chest LA, 7733 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, CA 90046. No need to fear aging! Whether you’re 25 or 75, there’s plenty you can learn now to make sure that you age with a juicy attitude, sizzling orgasms, and strategies for staying sexually vibrant despite what the aging process throws your way. You’ll learn practical tips and attitude adjustments to enrich your sex life lifelong – partnered or solo. Some are quick and easy, many will surprise you, and a few will take some practice and commitment. All will benefit you lifelong. You don’t have to be a senior to learn from and enjoy this presentation! Free!
Fri., Sept. 16 - Sun., Sept 18, 2016: 25 Tips for Sexy Aging!, CatalystCon West, Westin Los Angeles Airport, 5400 West Century Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90045. No need to fear aging! Whether you’re 25 or 75, there’s plenty you can learn now to make sure that you age with a juicy attitude, sizzling orgasms, and strategies for staying sexually vibrant despite what the aging process throws your way. You’ll learn practical tips and attitude adjustments to enrich your sex life lifelong – partnered or solo. Some are quick and easy, many will surprise you, and a few will take some practice and commitment. All will benefit you lifelong. You don’t have to be a senior to learn from and enjoy this presentation!
Fri., Sept. 30 - Wed., Oct. 5, 2016: Joan Price is a featured speaker at Well Over Fifty Festival, Hotel Slovenska Plaža, Budva, Montenegro.The Age of Happiness conducts the second annual international festival to celebrate new opportunities of life after fifty. The festival takes place in Montenegro, near the sea. For one week, this event will bring together people who learned how to make their life after fifty brighter, better and more exciting than it was when they were young. They are athletes, designers, coaches, stylists, actors, singers, and travellers. They will come to have fun, to share their experience, and to tell their tricks that help them remain healthy, beautiful, and energetic and enjoy life like never before.
Sat, Oct. 8, 2016: Imagine the Possibilities: Sex after 50, 60, 70 and Beyond. Joan Price is the keynote speaker for the 4th annual Sex and Aging conference, 11 am-3pm, presented by Senior Services at Sibley Memorial Hospital, 5255 Loughboro Road, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20016, part of Johns Hopkins Medicine. Yes, there are challenges to satisfying, joyful sex after 50, 60, 70 and beyond – our bodies change, our sexual responsiveness retreats, our relationships get weary, maybe we find ourselves single. But for every problem, there is a solution -- with the right information, creativity, and a sense of humor. Let’s throw out the old expectations that don’t serve us anymore and replace them with a solid plan of action for staying sexy through the decades ahead. Joan Price, author of The Ultimate Guide to Sex after 50 and advocate for ageless sexuality, debunks the misinformation and sends you home with new tools, strategies, and attitudes for satisfying sex with or without a partner. If you are over 50, or you plan to be, or you work with the older population, you’ll learn much from this lively presentation. .
Thurs., August 4, 2016, 2:45 - 4:15 p.m.: 25 Tips for Sexy Aging!, Woodhull Sexual Freedom Summit, Hilton Alexandria Mark Center, 5000 Seminary Road, Alexandria, VA 22311. No need to fear aging! Whether you’re 25 or 75, there’s plenty you can learn now to make sure that you age with a juicy attitude, sizzling orgasms, and strategies for staying sexually vibrant despite the challenges that the aging process and health issues throw your way — and despite our society’s limiting stereotypes. You don’t have to be a senior to learn from and enjoy this presentation!
Sat., May 21, 2016, 9:30 to 10:45 a.m.: Blogging Isn’t Dead: How to Attract Readers, Followers, and the Media with a Blog that Breaks the Rules, ASJA Writers Conference, Roosevelt Hotel, New York City. Many of us have blogs, but are they effective, or just a time suck? A good blog attracts readers, gets readers involved with your topic and your message, promotes your books, increases your credibility in your field, and positions you as a media resource. What should you blog? How do you reach your audience? What are some tricks for engaging readers? How do you choose “evergreen” topics that people will search for and that will bring them to your blog even if they’ve never heard of you? What are the rules, and which ones should you break? Joan Price has been blogging about sex and aging since 2005. Her blog has won many awards and helped her get book contracts, book sales, speaking engagements, and media interviews. She shares her strategies in this practical, interactive presentation. If you never saw the sense in blogging, or if you have a blog but it feels like a waste of time, this workshop is for you. This is not a tech-oriented workshop – it’s about content, self-promotion, attracting and serving readers, and making your blog an integral – and enjoyable --part of your promotional strategy.
Sunday, June 5, 2016, 3-5 pm: 25 Tips for Sexy Aging! at Good Vibrations, 1620 Polk Street (at Sacramento St.), San Francisco, CA 94109. (415) 345-0400. No need to fear aging! Whether you’re 25 or 75, there’s plenty you can learn now to make sure that you age with a juicy attitude, sizzling orgasms, and strategies for staying sexually vibrant. You don’t have to be a senior to learn from and enjoy this presentation! But most of us will live long enough to need to deal with the challenges the aging process and health issues throw our way, so get ready to live a life much fuller than society’s limiting stereotypes. Joan Price, author of The Ultimate Guide to Sex after 50 and advocate for ageless sexuality, shares tips and new information to put a zing in your sex life, partnered or solo. Joan answers all the questions you didn’t think you could ask out loud! $20 in advance; $25 at the door, as space allows. Please pre-register here.
Wed., May 18, 2016, 8-10 pm. The Pleasure Chest, 1150 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10065. 25 Tips for Sexy Aging. No need to fear aging! Whether you’re 25 or 75, there’s plenty you can learn now to make sure that you age with a juicy attitude, sizzling orgasms, and strategies for staying sexually vibrant despite what the aging process throws your way. Joan Price presents practical tips and attitude adjustments to enrich your sex life lifelong – partnered or solo. Some are quick and easy, many will surprise you, and a few will take some practice and commitment. All will benefit you lifelong. You don’t have to be a senior to learn from and enjoy this presentation!
Tuesday, April 12, 2016, 6 - 8 pm: Sex After 50 with Joan Price at Jewish Community Center of San Francisco, Fisher Hall, 3200 California Street, San Francisco, CA 94118. Sex after 50 has its challenges, but it can be sizzling and satisfying. We'll address the challenges and celebrate the joys, sharing experiences and learning from each other in a spirit of candor, acceptance, creativity and humor. Take home new tools, techniques and attitudes for hot, joyful sex - with or without a partner.
Wednesday, March 30, 2016, 8 pm: The 5 Biggest Myths about Sex and Aging with Joan Price at The Pleasure Chest Chicago, 3436 North Lincoln Ave., Chicago, IL 60657. Joan shatters the myths and shares the most common questions that Boomers, seniors, and elders ask her. She'll answer those questions, too — in the candid, upbeat manner that led the media to dub her the "senior sexpert." Free. Attendance is on a first come, first served basis. Early arrival is recommended to secure your spot! Info 773-525-7151.
April 1-3, 2016: 25 Tips for Sexy Aging, CatalystCon Midwest, Hyatt Regency O’Hare, 9300 Bryn Mawr Avenue, Rosemont, Illinois 60018. No need to fear aging! Whether you’re 25 or 75, there’s plenty you can learn now to make sure that you age with a juicy attitude, sizzling orgasms, and strategies for staying sexually vibrant despite what the aging process throws your way. Joan Price presents practical tips and attitude adjustments to enrich your sex life lifelong – partnered or solo. Some are quick and easy, many will surprise you, and a few will take some practice and commitment. All will benefit you lifelong. You don’t have to be a senior to learn from and enjoy this presentation! Joan's session is Sat., April 2, 12:30-1:40 pm, and you'll want to attend the whole conference!
Monday, April 4, 2016, 8 am-5 pm: Milwaukee SHARE Health Care Providers Day, Alverno College Conference Center, 3400 S 43rd St., Milwaukee, WI 53219. What Aren’t They Talking About? Sex and Identity in Clinical Practice. This special one-day conference for health care providers will focus on the sexual health and well-being of four distinct groups of people (seniors, people with disabilities, transgender patients, and people with diverse sexual backgrounds) who are often uncomfortable discussing their intimate lives in health care settings. This event will provide context and sensitivity for health care providers when working with these populations. Sponsored by The Tool Shed. Session descriptions here. Cost: $100. Registration here.
Tuesday, April 5, 2016, 8-10 pm: Ask Me, I'll Tell You: Talking Out Loud about Sex & Aging at The Tool Shed, 2427 N. Murray Ave, Milwaukee, WI 5321. Yes, there are challenges to satisfying sex after 50, 60, 70 and beyond – but for every problem, there is a solution. Sex has changed but it can still be spicy and very satisfying, with the right information, creativity, and a sense of humor. Joan Price, senior sex author and advocate, shares tips and new information to put a zing in your sex life, partnered or solo. Joan answers all the questions you didn’t think you could ask out loud. An eye-popping, interactive, empowering mixed-gender workshop designed to help you have great sex through the years ahead. For couples and singles, all genders.
Sunday, November 8, 2015, 10:30 am - 12 pm: Oakmont Sunday Symposium, 7902 Oakmont Drive, Santa Rosa, CA. What Your Doctor Doesn’t Tell You (and Probably Doesn’t Know) about Sex after 60: Tips for increasing blood flow and arousal without pills; ways to work around arthritis limitations; how sex toys for women and men can increase sexual satisfaction; how to increase desire in long-term relationships; why orgasms are really good for you, either partnered or solo – sex educator Joan Price returns to spill all these secrets in her warm and lively manner. Bring your friends – and your doctor! Oakmont Sunday Symposium is open to all Oakmont residents and their invited guests.
Tuesday, November 10, 2015, 1-2:30 pm: How the Heck Do I Date at This Age? at San Francisco Village, an aging-in-place membership organization for people over 60 in San Francisco, Institute on Aging, 3575 Geary Blvd. at Arguello. You’re ready to connect for dating, sex, love, companionship – but dating as a senior feels awkward and downright weird. What are the guidelines? How do you meet people? Do you have to use online dating? (If so, how do you navigate writing your profile and weeding through the responses?) How do you avoid the pitfalls that can send potential dates running in the other direction? When do you bring up safer sex, your personal sexual issues, or sex at all? Whether you’re widowed, divorced, or a longtime single, you’ll find this interactive workshop illuminating and fun, and you’ll get to find out how other single seniors meet and mate (or try to). All genders and orientations welcome. Bring paper and pen or a laptop -- and a sense of humor. Free goodies: lubricant samples and condoms, for when you need them!
October 13, 2015, 1-2:30 pm: Talking Out Loud About Senior Sexat San Francisco Village, an aging-in-place membership organization for people over 60 in San Francisco, Institute on Aging, 3575 Geary Blvd. at Arguello. Yes, there are challenges to satisfying sex after 50, 60, 70 and beyond – but for every problem, there is a solution -- with the right information, creativity, and a sense of humor. Learn tips and new information to put a zing in your sex life, partnered or solo. You’ll take home new tools, techniques, and maybe a new attitude. It’s never too late for arousal and satisfaction – whether you’re partnered, dating, or on your own. Bring your questions!
Monday, September 7, 2015 7-9 pm: Ask Us About Sex after 50! with Joan Price and Linda Kirkman at Hares and Hyenas, 63 Johnston Street, Fitzroy, Victoria 3065, Australia. Yes, sex after 50, 60, 70 and beyond has its challenges: health issues, a solo life, the predictable sex that comes with longtime relationships, discomfort with changing bodies, lack of desire, dating at our age. But sex after midlife can also be hot and joyful if we learn, adapt, and explore what works for us. Let’s throw out the stereotypes and the old expectations that may not serve us anymore. We’ll cover relationship diversity, sexual health, fitting bodies together when they don't function or feel like they used to, and much more. Joan and Linda will debunk the myths, answer your questions, and send you home new tools, techniques, and attitudes to help you experience sizzling and satisfying sex -- with or without a partner. If you are over 50, or you plan to be, or you work with the older population, you’ll get your questions answered in this lively presentation. Tickets $25AUD/$20AUD in advance, or $30AUD at door.
September 8-9, 2015: Joan Price is a keynote speaker for the inaugural conferenceLet’s Talk About Sex at the Pullman Melbourne on the Park, 192 Wellington Parade, Melbourne VIC 3002, Australia. Sponsored by Alzheimer’s Australia Vic and Council of the Aged. The inaugural Let’s Talk About Sex Conference aims to challenge many of the assumptions, taboos and stereotypes when it comes to older people and sexual intimacy. The failure to acknowledge sexuality and ageing has left many older people deprived of their right to a satisfying and fulfilling sex life. This Conference will promote discussion that aims to improve the health and emotional wellbeing of older people through recognition of their rights to sexual expression. It will challenge society’s failure to acknowledge sexuality and ageing. Topics such as sexual and gender diversity, sexual consent and sexuality among people with cognitive impairment will be discussed as we highlight the importance of relationships and intimacy as we age. It will also address the challenges encountered by carers in residential and community care.
September 10, 2015, 12:45-1:45 pm: Joan Price: Naked at Our Age at the Wheeler Centre, 176 Little Lonsdale St., Melbourne Victoria 3000 Australia. ‘If you want your sexual exuberance to match mine three decades after age 40, start listening to your elders’. That’s the advice American author Joan Price gave to Miley Cyrus in a 2013 open letter, after Cyrus announced that over-40s don’t have sex. In 2011, Price wrote Naked at Our Age: Talking out loud about senior sex, which explored the challenges, delights, surprises and frustrations of sex for older people. The book was praised for its warmth and humour as well as its practical, no-nonsense advice. Price will talk about sex – and seniors – with Australian sex therapist, educator and media commentator Cyndi Darnell. Join us for a candid, funny, grown-up and possibly sexy conversation. Free, reservations recommended.
Mon., Sept. 14, 2015, 5:30-7:30 pm, Ask Us About Sex after 50! with Joan Price and Linda Kirkman at Visual Arts Centre, 21 View St., Bendigo, Vic 3550, Australia. Yes, sex after 50, 60, 70 and beyond has its challenges: health issues, a solo life, the predictable sex that comes with longtime relationships, discomfort with changing bodies, lack of desire, dating at our age. But sex after midlife can also be hot and joyful if we learn, adapt, and explore what works for us. Let’s throw out the stereotypes and the old expectations that may not serve us anymore. We’ll cover relationship diversity, sexual health, fitting bodies together when they don't function or feel like they used to, and much more. Joan and Linda will debunk the myths, answer your questions, and send you home new tools, techniques, and attitudes to help you experience sizzling and satisfying sex -- with or without a partner. If you are over 50, or you plan to be, or you work with the older population, you’ll get your questions answered in this lively presentation. Tickets $20AUD/$15AUD. For more info, email Linda Kirkman.
Wed., Sept. 16, 2015, 6:30-8:30 pm, What Your Clients are NOT Asking You about Sex: Talking About Senior Sex for Medical Professionals and Therapists, presented by the Society of Australian Sexologists. About half of all sexually active men and women aged 57 to 85 in the United States report at least one bothersome sexual problem; one third report at least two. Yet only 38 percent of men and 22 percent of women reported having discussed sex with a health professional since the age of 50. Why this information barrier? What can you, as professionals, do to overcome it with your patients and clients? Joan Price shares their changing sexual needs, problems, and fears, and what they wish their doctors, therapists, and other professionals and educators would help them resolve. Joan will address the 'extra mile' that sex therapists can go in helping their clients/patients. Venue: Level 3, 50 York Street, Sydney, Australia. $20AUD for SAS Members; $30AUD for non-members. RSVP sas-nsw@societyaustraliansexologists.org.au or drop-in.
Mon., Sept. 21 and Tues., Sept. 22, 2015, 7-9 pm: Great Sex after Fifty: two workshops with Joan Price, author of The Ultimate Guide to Sex after 50. Sydney's Max Black presents author and educator Joan Price (USA) appearing in-store at Max Black 264 King St, Newtown NSW 2042, Australia, for two very special workshops designed to help you navigate the world of sex, dating and relationships after 50. These intimate and fun workshops will give you the chance to ask questions and get answers. Tickets: $20AUD here. Please arrive at 6:45 and settle in with a glass of champagne.
Sept. 21: Ask Me, I'll Tell You: Talking Out Loud about Sex & Aging: Sex after 50 - the challenges, pleasures and answers to all the questions we don’t think we can ask out loud. Sex has changed but it can still be spicy and very satisfying, with the right information. An eye-popping, interactive, empowering mixed-gender workshop designed to help you have great sex after 50, 60, 70 & beyond.
Sept. 22: How the Heck Do I Date at This Age? Dating after 50 can feel awkward & weird. What are the guidelines? Should you lie about your age? How do avoid pitfalls & handle rejection? What about safer sex with a new person? Whether you’re widowed, divorced or a longtime single this fun workshop will be illuminating, plus you’ll find out how others our age meet & mate.
August 14, 2015: Sexuality and Aging Institute in Washington, D.C. "What Your Clients are NOT Asking You about Sex": About half of all sexually active men and women aged 57 to 85 in the United States report at least one bothersome sexual problem; one third report at least two. Yet only 38 percent of men and 22 percent of women reported having discussed sex with a physician since the age of 50 years. Why this information barrier, and what can you, as professionals, do to overcome it with your patients and clients? Joan Price shares what her readers and interviewees, age 50-80+, express about their changing sexual needs, problems, and fears, and what they wish their doctors, therapists, and other professionals and educators would help them resolve.
The Institute will be held as the first day of the Woodhull Sexual Freedom Summit at the Hilton Alexandria Mark Center.
August 14-16, 2015: Woodhull’s Sexual Freedom Summit in Alexandria, VA. The Sexual Freedom Summit features human rights activists, sexuality educators and researchers, professionals from the legal and medical fields, authors, sexual freedom movement leaders and organizational partners all working toward the time when sexual freedom is fully recognized as a fundamental human right. Joan Price presents "Let’s Talk about Senior Sex!" on Saturday, 8/15: You’ll learn the major sexual concerns that seniors may be reluctant to share with their medical providers and therapists, yet that impact their health and quality of life. Joan blasts the myths about sex and aging and gives you practical tips that will improve your senior clients’ sexual satisfaction. We’ll formulate practical questions that will elicit essential sexual information and share ways of talking about sex that will be comfortable for both your client and you.
June 3, 2015, 8-10 pm: Ask Me, I'll Tell You: Talking Out Loud About Senior Sex at Smitten Kitten, 3010 Lyndale Ave S., Minneapolis, MN 55408, 612-721-6088. In this illuminating workshop, you'll get to voice your questions and get answers from none other than senior sex and dating expert, Joan Price. We'll talk about the challenges, the pleasures and all the questions we didn't think we could ask out loud. Free!
June 7, 2015, 8-10 pm: Lusting, Mating and Dating At Any Age! at Smitten Kitten, 3010 Lyndale Ave S., Minneapolis, MN 55408, 612-721-6088. You’re ready to connect with the right person (or persons) for dating, sex, love, companionship -- so how can you find other singles who attract and interest you? How do you present yourself in the world of online dating, and avoid mistakes that send potential matches running in the other direction? Learn the Big Three Mistakes that most singles make whether they’re 25, 45, or 75 -- and what to do instead. Free! Saturday, April 25, 2015 1:00-2:30 pm, Presentation and Discussion with Joan Price on Sexuality and Aging at Central Reform Congregation, 5020 Waterman Blvd, St.Louis,Mo 63108, corner of Waterman and Kingshighway. RSVP by emailing Kassi Corley. Sponsored by Sex Positive St. Louis (SEX+STL), a community resource for people in the St. Louis metro area.
Sunday, April 26, 2015, 9:45-10:45 am, Let’s Talk about (Senior) Sex! The Ethical Society of St. Louis, 9001 Clayton Rd., Saint Louis, MO 63117-1003. Joan Price, author of the new The Ultimate Guide to Sex After 50: How to Maintain – or Regain! – a Spicy, Satisfying Sex Life, shares tips and new information to put a zing in your sex life, partnered or solo. Yes, there are challenges to satisfying sex after 50, 60, 70 and beyond – but for every problem, there is a solution -- with the right information, creativity, and a sense of humor. Sponsored by Sex Positive St. Louis (SEX+STL), a community resource for people in the St. Louis metro area.
Monday, April 27, 2015, 6-8 pm, Brown Lounge, George Warren Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis, MO, Joan Price talks to students and AASECT members about senior sex. Sponsored by Sex Positive St. Louis (SEX+STL), a community resource for people in the St. Louis metro area.
Wednesday, April 29, 2015, 6-7:30 pm, Senior Sex: The 8 Questions You Wish You Could Ask at Senior Planet, 127 W 25th St, New York, NY 10001, between 5th and 6th Ave. Sex at our age can be the best of our lives, if you can adapt, accept, and explore what works for you. It can be challenging: health issues, a solo life, the predictable sex that comes with long marriages, discomfort with your changing bodies, dating at our age - all these and more can get in the way of pleasurable sex. In this talk, Joan Price answers the 8 most frequently asked questions about senior sex and our aging bodies: How can I spice up my sex life? What's the point if I'm never in the mood? How can we speed things up? And other questions you've always wanted to ask. Free, reservation required here.
Saturday, May 2, 2015, 4-6 pm, Free Sex Advice in the Park, SW corner of Union Square Park, closest to 14th and Union Square W, New York City,with Francisco Ramirez and Joan Price. Bring your questions, get answers! No charge, no judgments, just two lively sex educators answering your burning questions.
Sunday, May 3, 2015, 6-8 pm, Let’s Talk about Senior Sex at Pleasure Chest Upper East Side, 1150 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10065. Yes, sex after 50, 60, 70 and beyond has its challenges, but it can also be hot and joyful. Joan Price, senior sex expert and author of the new Ultimate Guide to Sex After 50: How to Maintain – or Regain! – a Spicy, Satisfying Sex Life, will answer your questions and address your concerns. Take home new tools, techniques, and attitudes to help you experience sizzling and satisfying sex --with or without a partner! If you are over 50--or you plan to be--here’s what you want to know. (All genders & orientations welcome.) Free!
Friday, March 27 - Sunday, March 29, 2015: Elders Panel: “How Did We Get Here?"CatalystCon East, Hilton Crystal City Hotel, Arlington, VA, moderated by Joan Price. Carol Queen, Robert Morgan Lawrence, and Terri Clark are lively and influential sex educators who have been activists for sexual expression and acceptance since the sixties and seventies. They’ll discuss these topics and more:
How we were expected to behave and hide when we were young, and what happened to those who didn’t;
What sexual awareness/ activism was like in the sixties and seventies;
Why the sexual liberation and feminist movements were so important then and still are now;
Why the younger generation(s) need to understand what our pioneers accomplished for us;
What generational riffs we see now and how we can bridge the gap together.
Learn about the history behind your sexual liberation, which would not have happened without the trailblazing efforts of people like our panelists.
Sunday, March 15, 2015, 2:30-3:30 pm: "Never Too Late to Date" at the Tucson Festival of Books, Student Union, Catalina room. Newly single and terrified of dating again? Afraid you forgot how to flirt? Not looking forward to going to a bar and getting picked up (or picking up) someone? Wondering whether you should try online dating, or can you still put a personal ad in the local rag?Ann Anderson Evans, author of Daring to Date Again, and Joan Price, author of Naked at Our Age and The Ultimate Guide to Sex after Fifty, offer advice, insights and personal stories for people young and old looking to rekindle their love lives.
The Pulse III for penis pleasure has arrived from Hot Octopuss, and it's better than ever. Now you can go from any level straight to "Turbo Mode." An anti-stall sensor prevents any pressure from interfering with the vibrations. The Duo partner's experience has been improved. And now it charges magnetically. Every penis owner that I know who has tried any version of the Pulse has loved it, especially because no erection is required. I appreciate that as good as it is, Hot Octopuss keeps improving this penis pleaser. Read this review of the Pulse I and II and this one of the Pulse Solo and Duo II from our contest winners. Order the new one here.
Funkit. (Yes, that's an "n," not a "c," though the logo with the "n" on its side makes you look twice.) This beautiful silicone dildo aims to please, whether you use it vaginally or anally. The end is a suction cup, so you have even more options for play. Check out Funkit's website for many more dildo designs that show you that sex and art can be a lovely couple. They also make butt plugs, spanking paddles, and textured rings for your pleasure-giving finger.
O-Wand. Big and heavy -- 1.6 pounds and 13 inches long -- this elegant, powerful, silicone vibrator is curved with an ergonomic handle so you can hold it in different ways and even rest it on your body. It comes in a huge (17"), fancy box, includes a nubby cap accessory and a set of charger adapters for different countries. There's no pouch, though, which is strange considering its high price. It's completely waterproof, so you can take it in the tub with you. (I recommend not taking it in the shower, because if you drop 1.6 pounds on your foot, it could be serious.) Get 15% off with the discount code "BETTER15" -- just for our readers.
Überlube: When you want to feel a gliding sensation of skin on skin, this luxurious silicone lubricant delivers. Long-lasting for our slow-burning older bodies, slick for our delicate tissues, and a clear favorite of mine. Available in an elegant glass bottle or a refillable travel case.
Of course it would make me very happy if you got your giftee or yourself one of my senior sex books -- the gifts that keep on giving. A good choice for a holiday gift is Ageless Erotica, a ground-breaking anthology by talented writers over 50 featuring steamy, sexy characters over 50 (sometimes decades over 50). Ageless Erotica presents sexy seniors enjoying and sharing their erotic moments in short stories and memoir essays . And while you're looking at my books, how about giving your sweetie or yourself one of my self-help senior sex books for the new year?
Single, in her thirties, and (sometimes) enjoying the hook-up culture, Emily Witt decides to observe and participate in other ways that people enjoy sex. She explores Orgasmic Meditation, the making of porn, sex parties, and Burning Man, for example. If you liked 
In Search of My Sexy Old Self: Re-discovering sex after sixty and beyond
