BONKING older Brits have been urged to practise safe sex by using vegetable-themed condoms.
In those aged over 65, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have doubled in the last decade prompting calls for older generations to use protection.
Earlier this year cases of super gonorrhoea were detected in the UK, with people urged to be on the look out for the illness.
Before the pandemic, cases of syphilis also increased by 86 per cent in those 65 and over, Public Health England data showed.
And it's no wonder that infections are easily spread in this age group, when two thirds of Brits are uneasy when it comes to talking about STIs.
Research of 2,000 adults found half of Brits (51 per cent) find it difficult to have conversations about intercourse – 38 per cent of over 65s – with adults avoiding the topic because it makes them feel awkward.
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Relationship charity, Relate, has teamed up with the The Hornicultural Society to end the stigma among older generations when it comes to talking about sex.
Their study found that 43 per cent of those aged 65 and over feel more confident and liberated now when it comes to sex than at any other point in their lives.
While more than half consider themselves to be adventurous in the bedroom.
The study also found 16 per cent of over 65s have purchased or considered buying sex toys for themselves or their partner during the past 12 months.
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More than half this age group (52 per cent) have sex once to twice a week – with 12 per cent claiming to have intercourse more now than at any other time in their lives.
However, the research carried out through OnePoll found 80 per cent of over 65s haven’t bought condoms in the past six months.
That's why the society has now launched a new range of condoms to encourage older age groups to stayprotected.
They come in garden seed-style packaging and will be available in six naughty veg themes, including onions, avocado, plums, artichokes, courgette and aubergine.
The free condoms are also sustainable and can be planted in a pot to degrade.
Relationship psychotherapist and Relate president, Anjula Mutand said sex and intimacy can be as adventurous and fulfilling in later life as it can be at any age.
She explained: “It might be different – for physical or other reasons – but it’s brilliant that our research showed it’s still a significant part of life for those who want it to be.
“And we shouldn’t be afraid to talk about the importance of safe sex, regardless of age.
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“By bringing the sexual health debate to an unexpected environment like a garden centre, we’re once again trying to help break down taboos and get people up and down the country talking about the joy of later life sex.”
The limited-edition condoms are available from www.relate.org.uk and also in-store at Finchley Nurseries in London.
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