If your vagina likes penetration and your G-spot likes pulsing stimulation, the Stronic G Pulsator II from Fun Factory delivers. It doesn't just vibrate -- it "pulses," which feels like quick, tiny thrusts that easily zero in on the G-spot. It was sort of like a pleasure-giving, superhuman, abnormally fat finger on my G-spot going faster than a finger can go.
If that's a muddled description, because, seriously, it could never be mistaken for a finger of any size. This video may help. Let's just say that the sensations were pure pleasure.
The Stronic G has seven speeds and three different rhythms. Though normally I go straight to steady rhythm and highest speed, I found myself enjoying the pattern and speed variations as much as strong-and-steady.
The G-spotter "head" is firm yet has enough cushioning for comfort. I worried that the pressure of tightening the vaginal muscles around it would reduce the pulsing. The sensations changed a tad, but didn't weaken, hurray. The Stronic G is made of body-safe silicone, like all Fun Factory vibrators, and is waterproof for shower, tub, and pool use. It charges via a USB magnetic charger, easy peasy.
Prop a small pillow between your legs, snuggle the handle into the pillow after you insert the Pulsator, and it works hands-free! Most insertable vibrators don't stay in place -- they rotate gradually -- but this one stays put, tilted against your G-spot, as long as you don't use too much lubricant. Use just enough water-based lube for comfort, but not enough to make it slippery. I can't guarantee that it will stay put for you (we're all different), but when it works, it's a terrific bonus.
Karim Rashid Toybag
Just a few cons:
Expensive: $200 (US)
No pouch. Come on, Fun Factory, for that price you could include one of your sweet Tyvek zipped toybags! I love the Karim Rashid Toybag, but if that would pop up the cost too much, the undecorated Toybag M would do.
Pacemaker alert: The Stronic G uses a magnetic charger which is incompatible with pacemakers. Although this warning appears on the box and the insert, it is not on the website, where it should be. After all, you don't want to buy something and learn afterwards that you can't use it.
A few words about size: Fun Factory makes a huge variety of fine sex toys: vibrators, dildos, anal toys, and more. I don't review them often because most Fun Factory penetrative toys have more girth than many of my senior readers and I prefer. Many older vagina owners find that penetration with a thick dildo, vibrator, or penis isn't comfortable or pleasurable anymore, or takes more warm-up than we like when we want a quick orgasm with a sex toy.
But the gently tapered shape of the Stronic G "head" makes penetration smooth and comfortable. The widest part measures 1.65 inches in diameter, but it doesn't feel that large because the shape makes insertion smooth and gentle, especially when you tilt it. Pulling it out may be less comfortable if you prefer slim products, because the "hook" shape can tug unless you tilt it. Relax, go slowly and, of course, use lube.
11/1/17: I'm moving this October 2010 book review to the top of the blog today because I think Rae's book is brilliant, engrossing, and passionate. I want to be sure you know about this sexy memoir. -- Joan
"Where are the books by and for women over 50 that deal honestly with sexuality?" I've asked myself for years. Dozens of self-help books for our age group have appeared in the past four years, thank goodness, but where are the sexually honest novels and memoirs that talk about our lives, our passions, our desires, our sexuality, our inner lives? Finally -- Free Fall: A Late in Life Love Affair by Rae Padilla Francoeur arrives with honesty and sizzle.
Free Fall is an erotic memoir and much more. Rae Padilla Francoeur, age 58, begins a love affair with Jim, age 67. It's hot, very hot, explosively hot. Rae describes the passionate details -- how he touches and controls her body, how her passions smolder, build, and erupt. As graphic as her details are, I'm pleased that she uses language our generation is comfortable with -- penis, vagina -- instead of the edgier language that characterizes most contemporary erotica.
And, oh my, this book is beautifully written:
I am shameless. I will slide over every inch of him, kissing him back, wrestling in all that sweat to stay on top. I am sure I will never get enough of him. He will find this out and, being the man he is, he will revel in trying to find the outer limits of my stamina and prowess. He never will. ... I've become so still and quiet and deep in the zone where my brain is one massive sensor hooked into the places he touches and the places I touch. There is nothing else. I'm all body. ... We're kissing each other like the end of time is on the other side of the door. We kiss like this for ten or fifteen minutes until suddenly Jim stops it all. He steps back. He pulls my skirt over my hips. He takes my hand and places it on his penis.
Rae Padilla Francoeur
The title refers to more than Rae's "free fall" into later-life passion. Like all of us, her love affair doesn't happen in a vacuum. Much of the book deals with her other "free fall" -- her relationship with Eli, her partner of many years, who is losing his battle with bipolar disorder. Rae loves him deeply, though her love is more brotherly than loverly by now, but she must choose herself over Eli if she is to survive. Eli's story grips us as much as Rae's love affair with Jim.
Free Fall: A Late in Life Love Affairis one of the best books I've read in years. I hope you'll read it for yourself, and let us know what you think.
When do we lose the right to sexual expression? If we’re lucky enough to be active and independent now, we’re smart enough to realize that a time may come that we no longer can live on our own. What will you want for yourself? For your loved ones? How can you make sure that your wishes are respected?
Take some time to think about these ideas and questions:
When do we lose the right to sexual expression?
Does our right to sexual expression end if/when we can no longer live independently? If so, why?
Who determines whether we can still express ourselves sexually, and by what guidelines do they make that decision?
Do elders with dementia have the right to sexual expression? Who decides that, and on what basis?
If staff members have a different personal belief about what’s appropriate sexual behavior (or non-behavior), do their values override our own?
If family members are uncomfortable with us having a sexual relationship, should their wishes supersede ours?
As uncomfortable as this might seem, I suggest you write down your personal policy about your right to sexual expression in your later years: an Advance Directive for Sexual Rights, let's call it. Then share it with your loved ones. Just because you might be unable to voice your wishes when the time comes doesn’t mean you no longer have those wishes.
Personally, I want the right to decide when and how I want to be touched sexually -- whether by my own hand, a partner I've chosen, or a sex toy that they'd better not pry out of my arthritic hands -- for the rest of my life. Don't you?
If I end up living in a care facility, I imagine I won't submit to rules easily, unless they are as progressive as the Hebrew Home at Riverdale (NY), which has had a sexual rights policy since 1995, and updates it periodically. Until other homes catch up, it's up to us to make our wishes clear.
Have you written your Advance Directive for Sexual Rights? Here's a working draft of mine:
Make sure I have an outlet and batteries to keep my sex toys in working order.
Do not interfere with any warm connection I may be enjoying with any companion I choose, in any way I choose to express that connection.
If I’m involved with a sexual partner, make sure I have easy access to safer sex protection.
When I close the door—whether I’m alone or with another person—give me privacy.
If I’m still capable of sharing information about senior sexuality with residents and or staff, provide me with opportunities to do that.
Do you have a parent who is out in the dating world? If so, this post is for you. This blog is normally aimed at folks age 50, 60, 70 and beyond. But right now I'd like to talk to the adult children of Boomers and seniors who are dating new people. My questions to you:
Have you talked to your parent about safer sex?
If so, how did that conversation go?
If not, was it because you didn't dare, didn't want to, or didn't have the words?
Arti Patel
First, a little background. I was interviewed extensively in "Seniors have sex – and the STI rates to prove it" by Arti Patel for Global News. This article addressed the rising rates of STIs among seniors in Canada, the reasons behind the rise, and what we can do about it. Patel wrote,
Joan Price, sex advocate and author of The Ultimate Guide to Sex After 50: How to Maintain – or Regain! – a Spicy, Satisfying Sex Life, says the reason why the community has high STI rates is simple: they’re not using condoms.
After this article came out, Kelly Cutrara interviewed me about this topic on Talk Radio AM 640 in Toronto. (I apologize for the call quality -- the interview request was too fast to get to my landline.) She asked me how the younger generation can talk to their single parents about safer sex. How do they get beyond the embarrassment? What words can they use? What if their good intentions backfire?
I suggested that this approach might begin the conversation:
"I know it's incredibly awkward to talk about sex with my parent, but Mom [Dad], we need to do this. What do you know about safer sex? Are you using condoms?"
[Parent:] "What? Why are we having this conversation?"
"Because no one else will, and I care about you. I know that STI rates are rising among your age group. I want to make sure you're protected."
If you have been at either end -- Boomer/senior parent or adult child -- of a similar conversation, what did you say? What was the outcome? Or if you have another idea about how this discussion should go, we'd all like to know your thoughts.
Please share by posting a comment here, and include your age. (If you have trouble posting, email me with your comment and the name you'd like to use -- it doesn't have to be yours -- and your age, and I'll post it for you.) Let's get this discussion going.
"How is it possible for a 69-year-old woman and a 72-year-old man to enjoy 3 continuous hours of non-stop sex and joyful lovemaking, and then fall contentedly to sleep? And pick right up in the morning, seemingly where we left off? Use Joan's "sex without penetration" method, and leave out any and all expectations! Really. I owe you a big time testimonial!"
A couple of months later, I gave this webinar again, and another man raved to me about how well the techniques and especially the attitude adjustment worked for him and his new lover. I asked if he was willing to say more, and he sent me this. I share with you with his approval:
Sex without Penetration
by Shamus MacDuff
Like most heterosexual males who learned about sex via Playboy, locker room talk, and pornography, I grew up thinking that “real sex” involved putting my penis in a woman’s vagina and thrusting in and out until I ejaculated. Oh, how wrong I was!
Widowed at age 73 after two long marriages, I was very fortunate to meet a wonderful, sex-positive woman via an online dating site. We clicked almost instantly and soon became lovers.
Thankfully, by then I had taken Joan Price’s webinar, “Great Sex Without Penetration.” It taught me that loving, happy, joyous sex is much more than the classic sexual intercourse -- putting penis-in-vagina (PIV: a term I learned from the webinar) -- which I had thought defined sex. The webinar also surprised me with the fact that very few women achieve orgasms that way.
When this new woman and I were first exploring each other, open and caring communications about sex without penetration aided us in learning how to please each other and reach a crescendo of sexual joy.
My patient lover explained to me exactly how to bring her to orgasm, which had everything to do with clitoral stimulation and nothing to do with intercourse. Since the webinar emphasized the central importance of good communication toward achieving mutual pleasure and orgasm, I was grateful for my lover’s guidance.
Exploring each other without the goal of PIV also let us enjoy excitement and orgasms without any performance anxiety about whether my erection would be hard enough or last long enough. That didn’t matter!
I’ve discovered that giving a woman pleasure via cunnilingus and touching is highly arousing for me. giving me more excitement and pleasure than PIV. My lover equally enjoys pleasing me with fellatio, stroking, and sex toys. Another of Joan’s webinars, “Sex Toys for Seniors,” introduced me to the variety of sex toys and the many fun ways that they can be employed. I’m sure that other men will find, as I have, that these toys heighten sexual pleasure without penetration -- for us as well as for our partners!
So, listen up, guys: if you’re an older man in search of mutual pleasure and sexual fulfillment, sex without penetration is the way to go!
Note from Joan: If you'd like to take one of my workshops live, see my upcoming schedule here. But you don't have to wait for me to come to a city near you -- recordings of my webinars are available now. Info here. Email me for registration details.
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.
The review above was originally published 9/8/16. My 8/1/17 update:
The dear folks at Tantus sent me the Dorado Head to try with my Rumble. The Dorado has a silicone "fin" shape that flicks and flutters, good for stimulating any erogenous zone that wants to be flicked and fluttered.
I found the sensation underwhelming for clitoral arousal, but my penis owner tester reported that it felt nice on his nipples and oh yeah, really, REALLY nice when fluttered up and down and on and around his penis.
For just an extra $24, this attachment makes the Rumble even more versatile. All the Rumble attachments (scroll down from here to view three styles) are easily interchangeable -- just pull off the regular head and substitute the attachment of your choice.
The Womanizer -- the sex toy whose name we hate and whose orgasm assistance we love -- has two new models! There's the long-handled Womanizer Plus and the lipstick-shaped Womanizer 2Go. As soon as I expressed interest, Good Vibrations rushed to ship me both to review. (Love you, Educator Andy!) I was surprised by how powerfully -- and quickly! -- both worked.
Let's get one thing settled. In my earlier reviews of the original Womanizer and the later model Womanizer W500, I dubbed the sensation "clitoral suction." I described it this way:
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.
I stand by my description of the sensation, but I guess I need to stop calling it "sucking." Other reviewers** have pointed out that it doesn't "suck" -- it blows puffs of air in pressurized pulses. The company calls it "Pleasure Air Technology." It feels like gentle sucking to me, and it feels glorious. In my experience, both of these new Womanizers speed up arousal and deliver orgasms easily and surprisingly quickly.
Heads in two sizes
These Womanizers are more attractive than the previous models -- the garishness is gone -- and the control buttons*** are easier to use. Both come with detachable heads in two sizes and shapes to get the best fit for your clitoris. (Look carefully -- the extra head is easy to miss underneath the packaging.) Both models are waterproof!
Pros: * Smallish and light to pack for travel -- this one is going in my carry-on for sure!
* Quite strong, considering the comparatively small size.
Womanizer 2Go (L) Laura Mercier lipstick (R)
Cons: * It's the shape of a lipstick, but not the size. See the difference? This is only a con if you expect teeny tiny.
* The case does not stay closed securely. A little nudge will dislodge the cap from the base. This is a design flaw, and an aggravating one. Be careful if you're carrying it in your purse. Don't let the cat knock it around.
Pros: * The long handle is splendidly ergonomic, especially for short arms and arthritic wrists. The design is a huge improvement over previous models.
* The sensation is strong, dependable, and joyous.
Cons: * I didn't find any cons. Other reviewers criticized the placement of the controls, high and low on the back of the handle, but I liked that I couldn't accidentally turn it down or off.
* Wait -- one con: the price. Yeah, it's as expensive as two high-quality sex toys. But in my view, if you can afford the $200, the pleasure and ease of orgasm make it worth it. Of course your mileage may vary.
** The funny and often snarky Epiphora described the sensation as akin to "a horde of fish nibbling tenderly at your clitoris." The "sex toy critic/ dildo burner" Dangerous Lilly wrote, "I’ve been told by Womanizer there is no vacuum/suction, instead, the technology is 'pressurized air pulses,'" in her remarkably thorough review of both of these products, Womanizer 2Go and Womanizer Plus, and comparison of all the Womanizer models and the Satisfyer (which I haven't yet reviewed, but it's in the pipeline). Why am I sending you to other reviewers? Because they're marvelous, and if you don't already read Epiphora and Dangerous Lilly, you should!
*** Control buttons:
Controls back of handle
2Go control button on bottom
Thank you, Good Vibrations, for sending me these Womanizers in return for an honest review.
6/30/17 update: So many folks in our age group have never shopped in a sex toy shop, or think they're all dark, scary, and sticky-floored. I describe today's progressive sex toy store, demystify the experience of shopping there, and encourage you to find the closest store and visit in "How to Shop for Sex Toys" for Senior Planet. I quoted several of you! I hope you'll comment there and copy your comment here, too. Thanks for being part of our community.
original post 6/10/17:
How old were you when you first visited a sex toy store? If your first visit was after age 50, what was that like for you? How did the staff make you feel comfortable (or not)? Was it difficult for you to ask questions? I invite you to share by posting a comment.
Good Vibrations San Francisco
Many of my events are in sex toy stores. At 73, I'm comfortable in stores whose walls are populated by shelves of vibrators and dildos. I love to visit to see what's new. I pal around with staff members, delighting in the kinds of discussions that sex nerds enjoy.
Yet I frequently hear from people of my generation that they don't feel comfortable even going into a sex toy shop, let alone asking intimate questions of strangers who look to be the age of their grandchildren. I know what terrific resources these stores are, staffed by trained sex educators and filled with sex toys (aka "orgasm tools," as I sometimes call them) that can intensify your sexual pleasure in ways you thought had disappeared or at least decreased after a certain number of birthdays.
Pleasure Chest NYC
I'd love for this post to become a discussion. Whether you love sex toy shops or you've never dared go in one, or anything in between, please share your experiences and views as comments on this post.* You don't have to use your real name (choose something other than "anonymous," please, just so we can keep track of who's saying what), but please give your real age.
I might want to quote from your experience in an upcoming article. I won't identify you, except by age, unless you want me to. Thank you!
* Please, though, don't post a comment aimed at promoting your own business. If you want to advertise on this blog (a very good idea if you want to reach our age group, but only after I scrutinize your site, the quality of your products, and your customer service), email me to inquire. Any commercial promotions disguised as comments will be swiftly deleted.
6/22/17 update. I was just telling a friend about this hilarious review and decided to bring it to your attention, too. This post is from March 2013. Yes, Ageless Erotica is still available, from either my website (autographed!) or Amazon. The book and I are 4 years older now; otherwise nothing has changed! -- Joan
If you want a glimpse into the erotic imaginations of sex writers who’ve been around the block a few times, pick up a copy of Ageless Erotica, a new collection of sex writing by, for, and about seniors.
Joan Price, 69, is on a mission to “talk out loud about senior sex.” She gives lectures. She holds workshops. And she writes books. Better than I Ever Expected: Straight Talk about Sex After Sixty was followed by Naked At Our Age: Talking Out Loud About Senior Sex. And now there’s Ageless Erotica, described as a “steamy assortment of erotic stories and memoir essays written for a mature audience.”
The book collects tales of seniors from all walks of life, gay and straight, vanilla and kinky, taking their clothes off and having a good time. I’ve never found erotica a turn-on, but I still got a kick out of reading it. I even learned a few things. (Masturbation clubs for women? Who knew?)
The stories in Ageless Erotica are a fascinating mix of the sensual, the medical and the humorous. The writing itself is all over the place. Laughingly abysmal. Unabashedly smutty. And, often, oddly moving.
Here’s a sampling of my favorite lines:
“My yoni was a ravenous hollow.”
“In a flash, he was butt-naked except for his socks.”
“I came in places I didn’t know I had.”
“My first blue cock. Would anything else on earth ever feel so good?”
“I played his instrument with my mouth as if it were a flute.”
“You are amazingly well constructed,” he said. “There’s evidence of too much sun on exposed areas, leaving a coarseness to the skin, but,” he added, stroking my ass, “the hidden parts are the silkiest I’ve ever felt.”
“Lifting her breasts away from her chest, he kissed his way down, until he found her sparse, gray pubic hair.”
“A lifetime of hard work let me afford trendy cashmere sweaters.”
“You have such beautiful, manly nipples, sweetheart.”
“I skipped teasing him with the knitted glove and went straight to the surgical one — in my actual size.”
“Filthy incoherence is always a positive sign at that point in our lovemaking.”
“He wants me naked when I fling the front door open.”
“It’s my boyish charm, as I’m told, that hangs around, unlike my hair.”
“I’ve included the inevitable butt plug.”
“A heavy date requires a slow day beforehand and a preparatory nap.”
“Off to the bedroom?” I asked with a wink.
“I clutch the sheets and yell, 'Fuck, oh fuck, yes, yes, yes, do me, oh do me, thank you Sir, oh fuck, fuck, yes, yes, yes!'”
“We were naked before we even washed our vibrators.”
“I couldn’t remember if I had shaved the gray hairs from my lollipop just in case it was going to get licked.”
“Barry took my legs and spread them like a wishbone.”
“Tom Maynard, you’re as hard as a prize salami!”
“You can thank my hormone supplements. They do wonders for this kind of thing.”
"His first question when we met was, 'Do you know how to gut a deer?'”
"He says, 'I’m prepared,' code for the Levitra pill he took a half hour ago.”
“My heart resumed a normal rhythm, all fears of another infarction vanished.”
"His tongue slid around my clit, which I’ve named Ethel, and over it, and too soon, I flooded with warmth."
Intrigued? You can find Ageless Erotica at your local indy bookstore.
If it’s not in stock, just give the salesperson a lascivious wink and ask him to order it for you. And Ethel.
Roz Warren
Roz Warren writes for The New York Times and The Funny Times. Her work also appears in Good Housekeeping, The Christian Science Monitor and The Philadelphia Inquirer. Visit her website.
This review (c) Roz Warren first appeared at HumorTimes.com on March 30, 2013. It is reprinted here with Ms. Warren's permission.
I'm sure you've seen news stories that announce how often seniors are having sex or how much we enjoy the sex we're having. A problem I have with many of the studies about sex and aging is that they often don’t define “having sex.”
Does "having sex" mean partnered sex only? (Solo sex is real sex!) Heterosexual intercourse only? Orgasms? Are they asking whether we're having the same kind of sex we used to? What if we're enjoying new ways of having sex?
If we give a partner an orgasm and the partner gives us an orgasm, but there's no PIV (penis in vagina), did we have sex? I say yes. If we haven't had partner sex for a year but we give ourselves weekly orgasms with our favorite vibrator, are we sexually active? I say yes.
I don’t think we know much about what kind of sex seniors are having, once we broaden the definition of what sex is. My definition: Sex is any activity, solo or partnered, that gives us sexual pleasure, arousal, orgasm -- and maybe, but not always, all three. Does that cover the kind of sex you're having? Help me finesse this definition.
Let's discuss this. How would you define sex at our age? And how has your definition of sex changed over the decades? If you're willing to share your definition, or you have a comment on this topic, I invite you to post to the comments section. Your turn!
There's a lot to love about the Wish by We-Vibe. Relatively small, the Wish is powered by two motors that work independently to give a variety of 10 patterns. For its size, it packs a powerful punch. It is made of body-safe silicone, is light and small enough for travel, and can be used solo or during partner sex for extra clitoral stimulation. It's quiet, even at the highest settings. And it's fully waterproof!
As an external vulva vibrator, the Wish is designed to curve over the whole surface of the vulva, sending vibrations to the nerve endings of the external and internal clitoris. (If you're not familiar with the parts of the clitoris that reside under the skin, my ring illustrates this in miniature, and click here for an explanation.)
You can also use the tapered tip for pinpoint vibration, if you like. The tip is pointy, soft, and squishy, so you can press down for a delightful and intense sensation.
My only problem with the Wish is that it's not quite strong enough for me. Almost, but not quite. It packs a lot of power in its small size -- it's not at all a wimpy vibrator! But at 73, I often need the turbo power of the Magic Wand, the Doxy Die Cast, or the Sybian. I acknowledge -- and you've told me this, readers -- that most of you don't need the same level of intensity that I do. In that case, I think you'd love the Wish. And if it's not quite strong enough, it's a lovely warm-up to whatever you choose as your main event.
The Wish is rechargeable using a magnetic charger. The silver plates that you see at one end are for charging. The controls are the less visible, raised white button. I found the button difficult and slightly painful to press with my arthritic hand. Pressing with my thumbnail solved the problem, and I recommend that technique. Or, use the app:
Power Pulse setting
We-Vibe offers We-Connect™, a free app that you can download from your app store, that lets you control your Wish via your phone or tablet. You can turn it off and on, choose a pattern, and turn the intensity up or down.
At first I was indifferent to this idea -- why not just press the button? But I tried it, putting my iPad on the bed beside me, and I found I liked it!
Massage setting
I could swipe up to get to full power. I could swipe right or left to choose a pattern -- which was nicely illustrated on the screen -- instead of pressing the button until I happened upon one that I liked. I understand that I can also create my own pattern using the app, but I didn't try that.
I think We-Connect™ would be particularly helpful if you have a disability or condition that makes pressing the button difficult. There's also the option to let a lover control your Wish via the app from anywhere in the world. I didn't try that -- let me know if you do, and how you like it.
Although We-Vibe promotes the Wish as a vulva stimulator, and it definitely works for that, I think that any set of genitals would enjoy the sensations. It also works nicely as a whole body massager, curved to fit the body's peaks and valleys.
I originally published this on Mother's Day, 2013. I'm bringing it back on Mother's Day, 2017.
Let's do something different here for Mother's Day: Looking back, how did your mother's teachings about sexuality affect how you matured, interacted in relationships, saw yourself as a sexual being, enjoyed your sexuality?
I was born in 1943. When I came of age, my mother, Shirley Leshan Kassman, taught me nothing about sex other than a little about menstruation. The birds-and-bees talk was left to my obstetrician/ gynecologist father, who gave me a pamphlet about how women got pregnant accompanied by "ask me if you have any questions."
Joan 1961, senior year high school
Sure, I had questions. No, my parents weren't the ones I asked. Since my father regularly saw girls my age who were "in trouble," as unplanned pregnancy was called at the time, his point of view was decidedly and strictly a "don't do it!" warning.
So when I started having sex at 17 with my high school boyfriend, I knew I would be in big trouble if I got discovered (I did, but that's another story), and I knew nothing about pleasure.
Pleasure -- or why anyone would do these strange things with each other -- was totally omitted from my sex education. That's a weird and dangerous omission! When kissing and "petting" got me aroused, I was surprised and thought something was happening to me that didn't happen to other girls. What to do about that arousal remained a mystery, however.
In those days, no one mentioned the clitoris, not in the laughable "hygiene class" that was supposed to teach sex ed, not in any books I could find, and certainly not in the pamphlet that was supposed to ready me for adult sexuality. I had heard that women could have orgasms (no idea where I learned that), but how to make that happen? I had no idea -- neither did my boyfriend.
I have two chapters in Naked at Our Age called "Unlearning Our Upbringing" -- one with women's stories, one with men's stories. They're poignant, provocative, compelling. At a certain point we either look at our upbringing and realize it doesn't serve us any more, and we change -- or we don't.
I hope you'll add your comments and share your own experience. You don't have to use your real name (choose a first name of your choice instead of "anonymous"), but please tell us your real age so we can see how the era in which we were raised affected what we were taught about sex.
(A much shorter version of this post was published on Mother's Day 2011.)
I'd love to meet you in person! As events are scheduled, I'll post them here. 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.
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 (see them here) on topics related to senior sex, dating, and relationships. Scroll down to "recently completed events" to see my popular presentations, or I can design one to fit your attendees and your goals.
I look forward to meeting you -- either in person or online!
Note from Joan: More Summer/Fall 2018 events are being scheduled now. Contact me if you want if your group would enjoy my lively presentations on sex and aging or senior dating.
Thurs. - Sun., August 2-5, 2018, Invisible Seniors: Older-Age Sexuality as a Human Right. The older we get, the more invisible we become as sexual beings. Researchers ask us the wrong questions – or don’t ask us at all! Our doctors dismiss us. Our society defines us by our wrinkles and chronology and assumes we are asexual. As sex educators and activists, it’s not enough to understand the problems – we must come together to be part of the solution. This interactive workshop will show us how to do that. This presentation is part of Woodhull's Sexual Freedom Summit, Hilton Alexandria Mark Center Hotel, 5000 Seminary Rd, Alexandria, VA 22311.
October 1-3, 2018, Joan returns to The Smitten Kitten, 3010 Lyndale Ave S., Minneapolis, MN 55408, for three workshops. These workshops are free, with preregistration advised because they often fill with a waiting list. Call 612-721-6088 to register. * Mon, Oct. 1, 8-10 pm, 7 Steps to Reclaiming Your Sexual Pleasure after 50. How’s your sex life? If you’d answer that question with either “Not very satisfying” or “What sex life?” this powerful workshop is for you. You’ll learn the facts about how aging affects sex and easy, practical strategies for revving up your arousal and pleasure, with or without a partner. With Joan’s help, you’ll design your own 7-step plan for bringing the zing back into your sex life, partnered or solo. * Tuesday, Oct. 2, 8-10 pm, Great Sex Without Penetration. Let’s get one misconception out of the way. Sex without penetration is still sex. Real sex. Satisfying sex. Hot sex. The idea that only penetrative sex constitutes “real sex” limits our creativity and our satisfaction. There are many reasons that penetrative sex might be off the table, but that leaves us with a smorgasbord of delectable options. Get new ideas for what we can do instead to express ourselves sexually, arouse ourselves and each other, share intimacy, and enjoy orgasms. Learn how to talk to a partner about sexual limitations and possibilities and how to negotiate more satisfying sexual expression. For all ages, not just seniors. * Wednesday, Oct. 3, 8-10 pm, How the Heck Do I Date at This Age?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, weirdos and creeps? What about rejection? Sex with a new person? Whether you’re widowed, divorced, polyamorous, 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. Bring a print-out of your dating profile if you have one – we’ll help you rewrite it. Useful tips, shared stories, and plenty of laughter guaranteed.
(schedule updated July 20, 2018)
Webinars!
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, or both. These classes are on topics that you -- my subscribers and readers -- have requested. I've created a separate page for my webinars, including past webinars that are available via recording. See them here.
Safer sex barriers -- condoms, dental dams, gloves -- are FUN and we seniors need to use them. Learn how and why to use safer sex, how to eroticize it, and what to say during the safer sex conversation. You'll learn how to choose which size condom your penis of choice needs, what a receptive condom is and how it works, and even how to put a condom on a soft penis using your mouth. This lively, fun-filled webinar is presented by senior sex educator and award-winning author Joan Price and sponsored by Lucky Bloke. Watch it here.
TV, Internet interviews: Online Now
See Joan's recent television interviews here, including Fox News and Bay Sunday:
Recently completed events:
Wednesday, May 2, 2018, 8-10 pm: Great Sex without Penetration atPleasure Chest LA, 7733 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, CA 90046.Let’s get one misconception out of the way. Sex without penetration is still sex. Real sex. Hot sex. The idea that only penetrative sex constitutes “real sex” limits our creativity and our satisfaction. There are many reasons that penetrative sex might be off the table, but that leaves us with a smorgasbord of delectable options. Get new ideas for what we can do instead to express ourselves sexually, arouse ourselves and each other, share intimacy, and enjoy orgasms. Learn how to talk to a partner about sexual limitations and possibilities and how to negotiate more satisfying sexual expression. Free workshop!
Friday, May 4, 2018, 1:30 -4:30 pm. ALL WRITE! All You Need to Know to Turn Your Idea into a Polished Piece of Writing, Los Angeles Marriott Airport Hotel, 5855 West Century Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90045. Do you wish you were a better writer? Does a writing opportunity scare you into procrastination, embarrassment, self-doubt, or writing paralysis? Would it benefit you personally and professionally if you were confident about your writing ability? Whether you want to blog, write articles or books, or just express yourself better in writing, this hands-on workshop will enhance your skills and put a zing in your style. Note from Joan: If you're interested in a private session or a webinar on this topic, email me with the subject "All Write."
Fri.-Sun. May 4-6, 2018,. 12 Steps to Sexy Aging – Starting Now! Do you plan to get old? I hope you do, because the alternative to getting old is dying young, and who wants that? You’ve seen elders who radiate sexy zest, send sly signals, frequent sex shops and leave with a bounce in their step and a bag full of goodies. You’ve also met or heard stories about seniors who proclaim they’re done with sex, no longer interested, or who unintentionally let sex fall by the wayside until it’s too late to get it back. What can you do now to make sure you keep sex alive as you age? What are the secrets to staying sexually vibrant through the decades ahead? In this presentation, you’ll learn what you can do starting now, whether you’re 25 or 55 or any age at all, to invest in your future sexuality. You’ll learn practical tips, communication skills, and attitude adjustments to enrich your sex life lifelong – partnered or solo – despite what the aging process throws your way. This presentation is part ofCatalystCon, a conference created to inspire exceptional conversations about sexuality Los Angeles Marriott Airport Hotel, 5855 West Century Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90045. Register for CatalystCon here.
TO BE RESCHEDULED. Tues, Dec. 19, 2017, 7-8 pm. Current Conversations: Myths about Aging and Intimacy, at Middendorf-Kredell Branch, St. Charles City-County Library, 2750 Hwy. K, O'Fallon, MO 63368. Sex changes as we age, but it can still be spicy and very satisfying, with the right information, a spirit of adventure and creativity, and a sense of humor! Joan Price, author of The Ultimate Guide to Sex after 50 and the award-winning Naked at Our Age, 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." Joan will be speaking to library attendees via Skype. Register here to attend. Thurs, Nov. 2, 2017, 8-10 pm, 12 Steps to Sexy Aging – Starting Now! at The Pleasure Chest, 150 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10065. Do you plan to get old? I hope you do, because the alternative to getting old is dying young, and who wants that? You’ve seen elders who radiate sexy zest, send sly signals, frequent sex shops and leave with a bounce in their step and a bag full of goodies. You’ve also met or heard stories about seniors who proclaim they’re done with sex, no longer interested, or who unintentionally let sex fall by the wayside until it’s too late to get it back. What can you do now to make sure you keep sex alive as you age? What are the secrets to staying sexually vibrant through the decades ahead? In this presentation, you’ll learn what you can do now, whether you’re 25 or 55 or any age at all, to invest in your future sexuality. You’ll learn practical tips, communication skills, and attitude adjustments to enrich your sex life lifelong – partnered or solo – despite what the aging process throws your way. Free workshop!
Sat, Nov. 4, 2017, 2-5 pm, How the Heck Do I Date at This Age? at The Pleasure Chest, 150 2nd Ave., New York, NY 10065. 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, weirdos and creeps? What about rejection? Sex with a new person? Whether you’re widowed, divorced, polyamorous, 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. Bring paper and pen or a laptop and a print-out of your dating profile if you have one – we’ll help you rewrite it. Useful tips, shared stories, and plenty of laughter guaranteed. $39 by Nov. 2; $45 after Nov. 2 or at the door, space permitting. Registration required. Sign up here.
Wed., Sept. 20, 7-9 pm: How Do I Date at This Age? at Airport Health Club, 432 Aviation Blvd, Santa Rosa, CA 95403/ Dating after age 50 can feel awkward and weird. How do you meet people? What are the pitfalls, and how do you avoid them? What big mistakes do most singles make -- and what should you do instead? You’ll learn: • Where to meet new people. • How to write an online dating profile that attracts the right people and screens out the wrong ones. • How to avoid common mistakes that send potential matches running in the other direction. • First date strategies. • New ways to look at rejection and bad dates. • When the date goes well! What next? Cost: $39 received by Mon, 9/18; $44 at the door. Open to Airport Health Club members and non-members. (You don’t have to be over 50, as long as you’d enjoy dating those of us who are!)
Mon, Oct. 2, 2017, 8-10 pm, 7 Steps to Reclaiming Your Sexual Pleasure after 50 at The Smitten Kitten, 3010 Lyndale Ave S., Minneapolis, MN 55408, 612-721-6088. How’s your sex life? If you’d answer that question with either “Not very satisfying” or “What sex life?” this powerful workshop is for you. You’ll learn the facts about how aging affects sex and easy, practical strategies for revving up your arousal and pleasure, with or without a partner. With Joan’s help, you’ll design your own 7-step plan for bringing the zing back into your sex life, partnered or solo. Free!
Tues, Oct. 3, 2017, 8-10 pm, Great Sex Without Penetration at The Smitten Kitten, 3010 Lyndale Ave S., Minneapolis, MN 55408, 612-721-6088. Let’s get one misconception out of the way. Sex without penetration is still sex. Real sex. Satisfying sex. Hot sex. The idea that only penetrative sex constitutes “real sex” limits our creativity and our satisfaction. There are many reasons that penetrative sex might be off the table, but that leaves us with a smorgasbord of delectable options. Get new ideas for what we can do instead to express ourselves sexually, arouse ourselves and each other, share intimacy, and enjoy orgasms. Learn how to talk to a partner about sexual limitations and possibilities and how to negotiate more satisfying sexual expression. For all ages, not just seniors. Free!
Fri., Sept. 15, 2017, 1:30 -4:30 pm. ALL WRITE! All You Need to Know to Turn Your Idea into a Polished Piece of Writing, Westin Los Angeles Airport, 5400 West Century Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90045. Do you wish you were a better writer? Does a writing opportunity scare you into procrastination, embarrassment, self-doubt, or writing paralysis? Would it benefit you personally and professionally if you were confident about your writing ability? Whether you want to blog, write articles or books, or just express yourself better in writing, this hands-on workshop will enhance your skills and put a zing in your style. News flash: it doesn’t take talent or a graduate degree–it’s much easier than you think! This lively, 3-hour class will teach you a 6-Step Writing Process that will give your writing power and punch — and you’ll enjoy doing it. Bring a page of writing that needs some work, or some ideas for an article or blog post, or a project that you’ve been putting off. Watch your writing skill bloom with the simple techniques you’ll learn here. Joan Price, author of 8 books and thousands of articles, has earned her living with her writing for the past 30+ years.
Register here. $59 for the class or $99 for the class + 20-minute private writing critique. This is a pre-conference session at CatalystCon, with a separate fee and registration. You do not need to be registered for CatalystCon to attend.
Fri., Sept. 15 - Sun, Sept 17, 2017, CatalystCon, a conference created to inspire exceptional conversations about sexuality. 12 Steps to Sexy Aging – Starting Now! Do you plan to get old? I hope you do, because the alternative to getting old is dying young, and who wants that? You’ve seen elders who radiate sexy zest, send sly signals, frequent sex shops and leave with a bounce in their step and a bag full of goodies. You’ve also met or heard stories about seniors who proclaim they’re done with sex, no longer interested, or who unintentionally let sex fall by the wayside until it’s too late to get it back. What can you do now to make sure you keep sex alive as you age? What are the secrets to staying sexually vibrant through the decades ahead? In this presentation, you’ll learn what you can do starting now, whether you’re 25 or 55 or any age at all, to invest in your future sexuality. You’ll learn practical tips, communication skills, and attitude adjustments to enrich your sex life lifelong – partnered or solo – despite what the aging process throws your way. Westin Los Angeles Airport, 5400 West Century Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90045. Register for CatalystCon here.
Sun, Sept. 17, 2017, 7-9 pm: Great Sex without Penetration atPleasure Chest LA, 7733 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, CA 90046.Let’s get one misconception out of the way. Sex without penetration is still sex. Real sex. Hot sex. The idea that only penetrative sex constitutes “real sex” limits our creativity and our satisfaction. There are many reasons that penetrative sex might be off the table, but that leaves us with a smorgasbord of delectable options. Get new ideas for what we can do instead to express ourselves sexually, arouse ourselves and each other, share intimacy, and enjoy orgasms. Learn how to talk to a partner about sexual limitations and possibilities and how to negotiate more satisfying sexual expression. Free workshop!
Sun., June 4, 2017, 7-9 pm. 7 Steps to Reclaiming Your Sexual Pleasure after 50: How’s your sex life? If you’d answer that question with either “Not very satisfying” or “What sex life?” this powerful workshop is for you. You’ll learn the facts about how aging affects sex and easy, practical strategies for revving up your arousal and pleasure, with or without a partner. With Joan’s help, you’ll design your own 7-step plan for bringing the zing back into your sex life, partnered or solo. The Smitten Kitten, 3010 Lyndale Ave S., Minneapolis, MN 55408, 612-721-6088.
Mon, June 5, 2017, 8-10 pm. Great Sex Without Penetration: Let’s get one misconception out of the way. Sex without penetration is still sex. Real sex. Satisfying sex. Hot sex. The idea that only penetrative sex constitutes “real sex” limits our creativity and our satisfaction. There are many reasons that penetrative sex might be off the table, but that leaves us with a smorgasbord of delectable options. Get new ideas for what we can do instead to express ourselves sexually, arouse ourselves and each other, share intimacy, and enjoy orgasms. Learn how to talk to a partner about sexual limitations and possibilities and how to negotiate more satisfying sexual expression. The Smitten Kitten, 3010 Lyndale Ave S., Minneapolis, MN 55408, 612-721-6088.
Sunday, May 7, 2017, 5-7 pm.7 Steps to Reclaiming Your Sexual Pleasure after 50 at The Pleasure Chest, 1150 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10065. How’s your sex life? If you’d answer that question with either “Not very satisfying” or “What sex life?” this powerful workshop is for you. Joan Price shares the facts about how aging affects sex and easy, practical strategies for revving up your arousal and pleasure, with or without a partner. You’ll come away with your own 7-step plan for bringing the zing back into your sex life, partnered or solo.
Wed., May 10, 2017, 8 am -7 pm. 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), Hart House, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
Thurs., May 11, 2017, 7-9:30 pm. Talking about Senior Sex (for medical professionals and therapists) at Good For Her, 175 Harbord St, Toronto, ON M5S 1H3, Canada. About half of sexually active men and women age 57 to 85 in the US report at least one bothersome sexual problem; one third report at least two. Yet only 38% of men and 22% of women report discussing sex with a physician since age 50. Joan helps you overcome this barrier with your patients and clients.Register here.
Fri, May 12, 2017, 7-9:30 pm. The 5 Biggest Myths about Sex and Aging. 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 “senior sexpert.” Good For Her, 175 Harbord St, Toronto, ON M5S 1H3, Canada. Register here.
What Happens Next? Sex? No Sex? Different Sex?Thursday, March 9 (5:45-8pm), Sebastopol, CA. 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.
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.
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!
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!
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!
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 14-16, 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.)
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.
A few words about size: Fun Factory makes a huge variety of fine sex toys: vibrators, dildos, anal toys, and more. I don't review them often because most Fun Factory penetrative toys have more girth than many of my senior readers and I prefer. Many older vagina owners find that penetration with a thick dildo, vibrator, or penis isn't comfortable or pleasurable anymore, or takes more warm-up than we like when we want a quick orgasm with a sex toy.
"Where are the books by and for women over 50 that deal honestly with sexuality?" I've asked myself for years. Dozens of self-help books for our age group have appeared in the past four years, thank goodness, but where are the sexually honest novels and memoirs that talk about our lives, our passions, our desires, our sexuality, our inner lives? Finally -- 
is one of the best books I've read in years. I hope you'll read it for yourself, and let us know what you think.
