DEAR ABBY: Are senior citizens having more affairs these days? I used to laugh at the "old couples' sex letters" I'd see in your column -- until it hit home.
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My husband (age 68) ran into a 38-year-old ex-waitress friend. They had lunch, which led to emails and texts, which led to sexts and then a full-blown affair. I believe these personal/secretive forms of communication make going from texting to sexting much too easy.
Our generation didn't have much sexual freedom growing up. I think men of that generation have a "go for it before it's too late" mentality, and the combination of the Internet and Viagra is making it possible.
Should every couple insist on access to their spouse's devices? How do you broach the subject? I wish I had seen the number of texts being sent early on. Then this whole ugly affair might have been averted. Now my trust, my respect and our marriage are all in crisis. -- SHARON IN NAPLES, FLA.
DEAR SHARON: Technology and medicine are extending the sex lives of many seniors these days. However, I don't think it's necessary for couples to check each other's electronic devices if there is no cause for suspicion. In your case, because of your husband's infidelity, you do have that right -- and the way to broach the subject is to tackle it head on. And if you haven't already, insist that your husband join you in marriage counseling.