ORLANDO, Fla. — The same generation that ushered in the sexual revolution is about to have its way with senior sex.

“Attitudes about sex among seniors are changing as the baby-boom generation comes along,” said Arthur Hall, an Orlando, Fla., family physician who led a program recently about aging and sexuality.

“There is more activism among this group,” said Hall. “They want more information about staying sexually active as they get older.”

At the program titled “Romance, Intimacy & Aging” — a sort of sex ed for seniors — Andy and Glenda Marshall of Ocoee, Fla., came to learn new ways to add spark to their relationship.

“We’ve been married 48 years,” said Andy Marshall. “She knows all my tricks by now.”

The presentation provided an opportunity for seniors to learn about the positive effects of intimacy and sex on their physical and psychological health.

Sponsored by WellMed Medical Management of Florida and Physician Associates, the program in east Orlando drew dozens of couples and a few singles from throughout Central Florida.

“Maintaining intimate and close relationships is a primary reason to stay active and healthy,” said Hall.

Research shows that sexual activity occurs in about 73 percent of those who are 57 to 64 years old, 53 percent of those 65 to 74, and 26 percent of those 75 or older.

Hall compared attitudes about sex among Depression- era seniors versus those of older baby boomers. The two major differences were that boomers felt stronger about sex being important for every age group and were more receptive to sexual activities such as watching adult films.

Boomers are also less likely to succumb to the negative psychological aspects of aging and sex that have plagued older seniors, such as accepting and internalizing society’s view of asexual seniors.

“Many seniors feel like undignified ladies or dirty old men if they express interest in sex,” said Hall. “One of the problems is that there are few role models of elderly sexuality. There aren’t a lot of media portrayals of sexually active seniors.”

Hall also discussed the physical effect of aging on sexuality.

Decreases in sex hormones among men and women as well as conditions such as arthritis, menopause, diabetes and neurological disorders decrease libido. So do certain medications such as diuretics.

Benefits of sex include a boost to the immune system, natural pain relief and tension relief, as well as anti-depression and aerobic benefits.

Hall suggests older couples talk to their doctor to find ways to improve intimacy and sexuality. According to the AARP, 22 percent of women and 38 percent of men discuss sexuality topics with their doctor.

The Marshalls, who are both 63, offered their own advice.

“Good communication is a big thing—and understanding,” said Glenda Marshall.

Added her husband: “Understanding is huge. They say marriage is a 50-50 partnership. That’s not true. It’s 5 percent you get what you want. The other 95 percent you negotiate.”