Dating under the influence

An alarming new Australian survey has found single people over the age of 50 years find it difficult to date without consuming alcohol.

To coincide with the beginning of febfast, a campaign encouraging people to give up alcohol and fundraise for the month of February, the survey shows more than 1,000 people aged between 20 and 55 years were quizzed about their alcohol consumption and the effect it has on their sex and social lives.

While almost 75% of respondents claim sex is “better sober”, older Australians, as opposed to their Gen X and Y counterparts, are reaching for the bottle.

More than a quarter of people aged over 41 years admitted to doing something they wish they hadn’t while courting because they drank too much; and more than 10% admitted to embarrassing themselves by falling over.

Victoria’s Council on the Ageing chief executive, Sue Hendy, tells DPS News the 50 to 55 year age group grew up during an era when many “broke the rules”.

“They developed lifestyles which incorporated risk taking, alcohol and sex, so it is probably not a new behaviour, but that does not make it right either – but not necessarily surprising,” Ms Hendy says.

“The safe sex message is as important as the moderate alcohol message, as this group did not necessarily grow up with this message, and if they are sexually active with new and possible multiple partners, safe sex is essential at all ages,” she adds.

Sexologist and relationship expert Dr Nikki Goldstein tells WAtoday.com.au high divorce rates and lack of self-confidence are likely contributing factors to baby boomers drinking more in social and sexual scenarios.

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

Are you over the age of 50 years and find it difficult to date without the aid of alcohol? Share your thoughts on this latest survey by commenting in the box below.