The other day I was looking through our family album, and was shocked to see old pictures of my father. Right next to pictures of him at age 40, a   vibrant, active man, smiling broadly into the camera were pictures of him at 55 looking old, tired, and crabby. Since the change seemed very gradual in real life, it gave me a jolt to see the before and after photographs. What a difference just a few years can make. Think about your favourite male rock star or movie actor, and you will notice this very same change. Of course time changes everybody, but somehow in men this change seems very noticeable around a certain age. And that is mainly due to ‘andropause’ or the male menopause.

Andropause generally begins to occur around 40+ years of age. It is characterised by the loss of testosterone, which is the principal male sex hormone. Testosterone is the hormone that gives a man all his masculine qualities like a deep voice, facial hair, and Adam’s apple. Most importantly, it is also responsible for sperm production. Unlike menopause in women, where the estrogen levels suddenly drop, andropause can creep in gradually with testosterone levels declining over quite a few years. Thus the symptoms of andropause are not noticed suddenly, and many men consider andropause to be just a myth.

Symptoms of Andropause.
If you are a male around age 45, expect any or all of these symptoms to gradually occur:
1. Reduced libido, and inability to maintain a strong erection (this is the one that all men dread)
2. Fatigue
3. Mood swings
4. Irritability
5. Aches and pains
6. Insomnia
7. Depression
8. Weight gain
9. Decreased self-confidence
10. Anxiety
11. Cognitive decline (forgetfulness)
12. Loss of muscle mass
Andropause can lead to a higher risk of heart problems and osteoporosis.

So, what can a man do to improve the quality of life after 50?

Some men prefer to go in for Testosterone Replacement Therapy, which when carried out under a knowledgeable doctor’s supervision is excellent. But the doctor must be informed of all present medical problems and medications being used before treatment is prescribed.

For most, a healthy diet, physically active lifestyle, and good social realtionships go a long way in keeping a man healthy and happy. There are many supplements available that will help.
Maca Extract can help with libido problems; and erectile dysfunction meds are very effective.
Calcium and Vitamin D supplements can help strengthen bones, and prevent osteoporosis.
St. John’s wort is quite effective against depression and cognitive problems.
Creatine can increase muscle mass.
A good quality multivitamin and mineral supplement can boost general health.
Yoga, weight-lifting, and aerobic exercise will help improve the quality of life at any age.
Having a relaxing good time with family and friends is one of the best ways to help emotional and mental well-being.

A good and happy attitude towards all the different stages in life is probably the best medicine against feeling older.

“I don’t feel old. I don’t feel anything till noon. That’s when it’s time for my nap.”
BOB HOPE.

“The complete life, the perfect pattern, includes old age as well as youth and maturity. The beauty of the morning and the radiance of noon are good, but it would be a very silly person who drew the curtains and turned on the light in order to shut out the tranquillity of the evening. Old age has its pleasures, which, though different, are not less than the pleasures of youth.”
W. SOMERSET MAUGHAM, The Summing Up

Here’s to a pleasurable, exciting, and fulfilling older age!
Sonia.