Condoms aimed at gardening loving mature Brits are being put on sale in some garden centres with the idea of encouraging the older generations to continue practising safe sex.
The odd range of gardening-themed condoms – naughtily nicknamed "hornicultural" prophylactics – were developed to counter the rising number of STIs, especially among the over 65s. They come in garden seed-style packaging and will be available in six innuendo-laden fruit and vegetable themes including plums, aubergine, avocado, artichokes, courgettes and onions.
Even more weird is the fact that the condoms are made from sustainable material and can be left in compost to biodegrade, presumably in preparation for sowing seeds next spring.
The relationship charity Relate is behind the ‘The Hornicultural Society’ campaign, which hopes to end the stigma among older generations when it comes to talking about sex. Research has found that 51 per cent of Brits find it difficult to have conversations about intercourse, with adults avoiding the topic because it makes them feel awkward. Two thirds think there is a reluctance to talk about STIs among the older demographic.
However, the study also found 43 per cent of those aged 65 and over feel more confident and liberated when it comes to sex today than at any other point in their lives. More than half still consider themselves to be adventurous in the bedroom.
Anjula Mutanda, a relationship psychotherapist and Relate president, said: ‘’Sex and intimacy can be as adventurous and fulfilling in later life as it can be at any age. It might be different, for physical or other reasons, but it’s brilliant that our research showed it’s still a significant part of life for those who want it to be. And we shouldn’t be afraid to talk about the importance of safe sex, regardless of age.”
The study also found 16 per cent of over 65s have purchased or considered buying sex toys for themselves or their partner during the past 12 months. More than half this age group (52 per cent) have sex once to twice a week, with 12 per cent claiming to have intercourse more now than at any other time in their lives.
However, the research carried out through OnePoll found 80 per cent of over 65s haven’t bought condoms in the past six months. According to Age UK, STIs have more than doubled in the past 10 years among adults aged 65 years plus. Public Health England data found syphilis diagnoses increased by 86 per cent among the over 65s between 2015 and 2019.
Ms Mutanda, who is well-known on TV for her appearances on Big Brother, Daybreak, BBC Breakfast and Loose Women among other shows, added: “By bringing the sexual health debate to an unexpected environment like a garden centre, we’re once again trying to help break down taboos and get people up and down the country talking about the joy of later life sex.”
The limited-edition condoms are available from www.relate.org.uk and also in-store at Finchley Nurseries in London.
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