Baby boomers are expected to live longer than any previous generation of Americans. But they have more to worry about than gray hair and arthritis. Sexually transmitted diseases are a threat many of them don't even consider.
Jane Fowler is a mother, a grandmother, and an HIV-positive divorcee.
"After my divorce I gave little thought, no thought to STD's," Jane admits.
At nearly 50, she was reluctantly back on the dating scene. She had few sexual partners, and knew them all well.
"I knew that I couldn't become pregnant, so the idea of using protection of some kind, i.e. a condom, didn't enter my mind," she says.
So, when a routine blood test revealed that she had HIV, she was shocked. But Fred Wyand with the American Social Health Association says Jane's not alone.
"HIV is extremely prevalent among ages 45, 50 and older," he explains.
Rita Strombeck is President of the HealthCare Education Associates. She agrees it's a growing problem.
"It's increasing at a faster rate among older people than younger people, especially women," Strombeck tells us.
In fact, in 2005, CDC estimates show there were nearly double the amount of people diagnosed over the age of 40 as people in their twenties. Research shows that's not the only risk.
"Since the late 90's, the incidence of Acute Hepatitis B has increased dramatically among those age 40 and older, much more so than what you see with 20 and 30-year-olds," Wyand says.
Aging singles looking for love have never had so many choices. From speed dating events that cater to their demographic, to online match-making services.
"You can cast the net so much wider than you could 10 or 15 years ago," Wyand points out.
Healthcare educators say the boomer generation needs a refresher course in sex ed.
"They don't think it's a problem for them. They don't recognize risk factors. The use of condoms is very low, particularly among this group," Strombeck says.
In a recent AARP study, older Americans say sex is a critical part of a relationship. Pair that with a spike in sex-enhancing drugs, and experts say you've got a potential second sexual revolution. Strombeck says online dating services need to be more proactive.
"There needs to be some kind of warning. It should be part of every online dating service."
Advocates also want education through employers. Jane says safety is not only for the young. She wishes she had been armed with the right information.
"HIV is a preventable disease. There's no reason one has to become infected with it or any other STD," Jane says.
After being diagnosed, Jane founded 'HIV Wisdom' for older women. Her message is that age is no vaccine against HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases.
We contacted some leading dating sites about the issue. Only Match-Dot-Com got back to us, saying it does not have any safe sex messages on its site.
