Difficulties in sexual achievement for single women may be due more to cultural and social reasons than lack of interest and sexual inability. In particular, finding an available partner. Also, most elderly single women are less likely to remarry than elderly single men who may remarry younger women. Furthermore, elderly women tend to experience more losses at widowhood than elderly men. This is because the women gain identity and self-esteem from marital roles while men may gain identity through their work.
Some researchers suggest women try alternates other than marriage and courtship.
Changes in the marital relationship can also be a factor. Retirement brings a series of changes in which a couple must adapt. Marital conflict is known to be common during this time in one's relationship. Sexual desire may be suppress because of the anger or hostility toward the partner. Having to face the partner alone most of the time, after having a family for many years can also effect sexual desire.