The Benefits of Sex Toys for Seniors (And How to Choose)

Last Updated on October 19, 2026 by Kelly

One thing I like to stress in these articles is that almost anyone can benefit from sex toys and more sexual activities in their lives. However, one age group is often left out of the conversation: seniors. 

The sex toy industry is often youth-oriented, or at any rate, geared toward middle-aged couples trying to spice up their bedrooms. 

Seniors are often left out of the conversation. For a long time, people thought of seniors as sexless. 

There is a kernel of truth to people having less sex past a certain age, but often, it’s based on a thought rooted in “I can’t imagine Granny doing that!” 

With that said, this post will look at seniors and sex toys. 

Can Seniors Use Sex Toys?

Seniors can, and do, use sex toys! According to one study, over one-third of seniors use some sex toy. 

Sexual intimacy and desire are important, whether you’re 20, 40, 60, hell, 100. Some seniors will use a toy by themselves, especially if they’re widowed or if one partner cannot physically give pleasure. 

For some seniors, sex toys can be a great way to explore their sexuality, especially if they have more free time. For others, it’s a way to get more pleasure as your body ages.

Unfortunately, many seniors have gone their entire lives avoiding sex toys. Sex toys, and sex in general, have had a deep stigma over the years. 

In many people’s lives, sex toys have been seen as a sign of “Desperation” rather than a way for couples to experiment, have extra fun, and reach bigger orgasms. 

There’s good news, though. You can use sex toys and reap their benefits at any age, and as the old saying goes, it’s better late than never, right? 

If you’re on the fence about getting a sex toy, try one out. You can get yourself a basic vibrator, then move on up from there.

There are other benefits, which I’ll discuss now. 

What Are the Benefits of Using Sex Toys for Older Adults?

Older adults can receive many benefits from using sex toys. 

Making it Easier to Reach Orgasm

As you get older, especially post-menopause, achieving an orgasm can become difficult. That’s why some seniors turn to sex toys. 

Today’s toys use deep, powerful vibrations and know how to target certain areas, like the G-spot or P-spot, which can help you reach orgasm much more easily. 

Another reason why toys can help you reach an orgasm is that they lower performance anxiety and make sex less painful, two things that can make hitting a climax more difficult.

Orgasms can not only feel good, but also have health benefits. An orgasm may help to reduce pain, help you sleep better, and improve your mood. 

A good sex life is also associated with better cognition, though more research needs to be done. 

Correlation does not equal causation, so I do need to say that sex toys won’t be a magical cure-all. 

Help With Changes After Menopause and Erectile Dysfunction

Post-menopause, your vagina may not naturally lubricate as much and feel less sensitive. For males, ED can make it harder to have sex. 

Vibrators can help increase lubrication and pleasure, while toys such as penis rings and pumps can help men maintain an erection without needing pills. 

It’s not a sign of failure or shame that you need these toys, but a way to be at your best regardless of your age.

Help With Arthritis and Limited Mobility

Today’s sex toys have ergonomic handles that make gripping them easy, with some toys having hands-free features. 

There are self-thrusting toys, insertable bullets, and other sex toys that don’t need much hand movement. 

These type of toys are very useful for people suffering with arthritis.

There are also toys controlled via remote or phone. These features make it easy for a senior to reach climax without much physical exertion.

Additionally, these long-distance features allow couples to stay intimately connected, even if they are physically separated or managing different physical abilities

Also Read: Best Sex Toys for People With Disabilities

Provide Alternatives to Penetrative Sex

If it’s difficult to have sex due to ED or pain, toys can be a safer, fun alternative. You don’t even need to penetrate someone to have an orgasm. 

Some toys focus on external stimulation, such as clitoral vibrators or male masturbators. There are many fun ways to climax without going through the traditional means. 

What Should Seniors Look For in a Sex Toy?

• Easy to hold: The toy should have an ergonomic handle or another way to hold it without overexerting your hand. Avoid toys with a short handle or toys that require extra handwork. 

• Lightweight: Look for toys that are powerful, but don’t weigh that much. You probably know your limitations with holding objects, so avoid toys that may be a little too heavy.

• Simple controls: A toy with a simple remote is ideal. Usually, these remotes have a power button and buttons to change the intensity and vibration pattern. Avoid toys with too many bells and whistles, which can overcomplicate the experience. 

• Adjustable intensity: A good toy for seniors will start weaker, but have an intensity that can make even the least sensitive among us reach a powerful orgasm. Most toys will give an idea of how strong they are and what range the vibration settings can bring. 

• Body-safe materials: Look for toys made from silicone, glass, or other non-porous materials that won’t absorb any bacteria. Porous materials, like jelly, can be very difficult to clean.

• Easy to clean: Choose toys that can be easily cleaned with a quick wipe or a spritz of antibacterial toy cleaner. Avoid toys with awkward ridges or areas that may make cleaning difficult. 

• Waterproof: Look for IPX7 toys, which are fully waterproof. Alternatively, IPX6 makes the toy splashproof for showers or faucets. Toys that are not waterproof can be problematic, especially if you’re prone to them slipping out of your hand.

• Rechargeable: Rechargeable toys are much more convenient to use. Look for models with long-lasting batteries, checking the product description for estimated runtimes. Keep in mind that battery life fluctuates based on usage intensity, so look for “up to” ratings for a realistic baseline.

Are Sex Toys Safe for Seniors?

Yes! Sex toys are safe for any age, as long as you follow basic safety rules. These rules are even more important for seniors.

First, be sure the toy is properly lubricated! As you age, your body’s natural lubrication decreases, making lube essential. 

Use water-based lubes, as silicone can damage toys. Not applying enough lubrication may cause discomfort.

Clean toys before and after each use with warm water and a mild soap, or use a specialized antibacterial toy cleaner. Skipping this step can lead to infections.

Stop using the toy if you feel any pain. Toys should be pleasurable, not painful. Usually, pain can come from inadequate preparation. 

For example, the toy may be too big, and you may need to stretch yourself out with your fingers or a smaller hole.

Finally, read the manual and don’t feel embarrassed to reach out to customer support if you have any questions! Each toy may have a specific need.

What Types of Sex Toys Are Safe for Seniors?

There are many types of toys that are safe for seniors. These include.

Vibrators

Vibrators are the classic sex toy that improves stimulation via rumbling or buzzy vibrations. They come in all shapes and sizes. 

Some use manual buttons on the toy, while others are controlled via remote or mobile app. Increasingly, they are powered via a rechargeable battery.

Non-Contact/Air Pulse Technology

These types of toys use suction to stimulate the clitoris. They’re popular with post-menopausal women due to their targeted stimulation that requires minimal hand action. 

Other non-contact toys may include self-pumping penis pumps or self-stroking male masturbators.

Hands-Free Toys

These toys include bullet vibrators, thrusters, panty vibrators, or any other toy that requires minimal involvement from your hands once applied. 

Hands-free doesn’t mean that you won’t be using your hands at all, but mostly when the toy is inserted. 

You may need your hand or someone else’s during the insertion process. 

See Also: Best Hands-Free Sex Toys

Easy-Grip Toys

These toys have a handle that’s long, ergonomically shaped, or textured for easy gripping. They are designed to stay in one’s hand firmly without slipping out or causing much discomfort. 

Penis Stimulators

These toys are designed to make the penis erect and give it stimulation. Penis pumps, male masturbators (Fleshlights), and penis rings are just some examples. 

Penis pumps use air to keep an erection, while rings prevent blood from escaping from the penis. 

Meanwhile, male masturbators feel similar to a vagina, and some of them vibrate or thrust without needing hands. 

Prostate Toys

These toys feature a contoured design engineered to hit the prostate (P-spot) perfectly

Some men may worry about using prostate toys, as they feel that it’s shameful or painful. Rest assured that male orgasms this way are perfectly normal. 

As long as you use plenty of lube and prepare yourself properly, these toys can also be intensely pleasurable. 

Adaptive Furniture

These toys make masturbating or sexual intercourse easier. Lifted pillows and ramps can position you for sex, while sex chairs can make it easy if you have limited mobility. 

Adaptive furniture can be elaborate or expensive, but it can also be perfectly affordable and a total game-changer.

How Can Toys Help With Erectile Dysfunction (ED) or Patterned Performance Pressure?

It is true that as you age, sex can become more difficult. But often, it can be a self-fulfilling prophecy. 

If you worry about ED, this may end up being the cause of it. If you think sex is painful, you may start feeling phantom pains.

Sex toys can be the way to stop worrying so much. If you can’t get it up, you can use a dildo or strap-on to pleasure your partner. 

If it hurts when penetrating your partner, you can use lube first to ease your way in. You also have toys to help make sex easier, such as penis rings.

With that said, if you’re having ED issues or pressure due to pain, you also may want to talk to your doctor about this. 

Medication is available to help with these issues.

With ED in particular, you may not even need Viagra or other drugs. Sometimes, lifestyle changes can help to combat ED. 

Is it Normal to Start Using Sex Toys Later in Life?

Yes. As I’ve mentioned, one in three older adults use a sex toy, and using them is associated with larger orgasms. 

And it doesn’t matter when you use sex toys. Some use them early into their sexual journey, others in the middle, and some at the end. 

The important thing is that you’re having fun and having powerful orgasms. 

If you’re unsure where to start, I’d say go with a cheaper dildo from an online store or your local sex shop. 

Don’t go too cheap, though: get a toy with a rechargeable battery, body-safe materials, and adjustable intensity. 

This will give you an idea if sex toys are for you. Chances are, they will be.

Also Read: Best Sex Toys for Seniors

FAQs