Mayor David Royle joins members of the Medway Older People's Partnership for the launch of the booklet

by Jenni Horn

jhorn@thekmgroup.co.uk

An advice booklet for the over sixties, which encourages them to experiment in the bedroom, has been causing a bit of a stir.
The guide, produced by NHS Medway, hit the headlines last week. It aims to give advice on making the most of life as people get older and includes a section called Loving in Later Life which tells readers about the benefits of an active sex life.
The booklet, which cost £13,000 to produce, has been branded a waste of money.
It tells pensioners that they don’t have to lose their zest for a sexual relationship and it is never to late to experiment. It also warns pensioners that sexually transmitted diseases can affect any age and advises them to use a condom.
The Taxpayers’ Alliance called the booklet a patronising waste of cash and it seems many pensioners feel the same.
The story has been receiving comments from people across the UK - some good and some not so good.
Roger from Brighton said: “This money could have been better spent - it is just another indicator of the widespread mismanagement of taxpayers’ money by these overpaid over-promoted NHS hapless pointless managers.”
Chris from Cheltenham said: “Most pensioners know exactly what to do to enjoy a sex life - they don’t need condescending 'advice’ from NHS busybodies.”
A pensioner from London said: “I’m 84 years old and I don’t need a booklet about sex. If I don’t know by now, I never will. It’s a total waste of money. The person that thought up this idea ought to have their heads dunked in the Medway.
Charlotte from Loughton thought the booklet was a good idea. She said: “It’s not a huge amount of money, compared to what is wasted by our MPs, and given the health benefits of a sex life to the over 60s, it a good idea. They’re over 60, not dead! Why should their needs be neglected?” while Richard in Reading is considering a move to Medway. He said: “Does NHS Medway offer Viagra vouchers? If so I might consider moving there.”