LOVE AND SEX AFTER 60 - HOW TO EVALUATE AND TREAT THE IMPOTENT OLDER MAN

In the medical evaluation of older men with erectile dysfunction, obta in a detailed history to determine whether the dysfunction is organic or psychogenic. Determine if there are underlying pathologic processes -most notably vascular diseases-or other factors responsible for the d ysfunction, such as medications or nerve or arterial damage from surge ry. Lifestyle changes in mid-life (regular exercise, a low-fat diet, a nd smoking cessation) increase a man's chances of remaining potent as he grows older. Treatments for impotence include injection therapy, va c-uum devices, and implants. Each therapy has advantages and disadvant ages, and the informed patient plays an important role in choosing the therapy that is right for him.