Feeling like your energy, sex drive, and overall vitality aren't what they used to be? You're not alone. Most men expect some changes in their 40s and 50s, but what about those over 60 dealing with more pronounced symptoms of andropause?
Testosterone naturally drops about 1% per year from around age 30 to 40 [1], but this gradual decline becomes far more noticeable after 60. Medical professionals prefer the term Androgen Deficiency in the Ageing Male (ADAM) over "male menopause" [1], though unlike female menopause, ADAM affects only 2.1% of males [1]—making it less common but still significant for those experiencing it.
Men over 60 often face particularly challenging symptoms: decreased sex drive, fewer morning erections, erectile dysfunction, and physical changes like belly fat and chest tissue buildup [7]. These shifts stem from declining testosterone levels—your body's primary male hormone [7]. Poor diet, lack of exercise, chronic stress, and inadequate sleep can make these hormonal changes even worse [7].
Discover what andropause really means for men over 60, how to recognise the symptoms, understand the causes, get proper diagnosis, and explore treatment options that actually work in 2025.
What is Andropause and How Common is it After 60?
"Andropause is part of the ageing process, but it isn't a disease on its own." — Dr. Robert H. Eckel, Professor of Medicine Emeritus, Division of Endocrinology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus
Image Source: Herstasis® Health Foundation
Think andropause means a sudden hormonal crash like women experience during menopause? The reality is quite different. Men over 60 face more noticeable symptoms because of years of gradual testosterone decline, not an abrupt hormonal stop.
Understanding the term 'male menopause'
The NHS calls "male menopause" an "unhelpful term sometimes used in the media" [1]—and for good reason. Women experience a rapid hormonal drop during menopause, but men face a steady testosterone decline of roughly 1% each year from age 30-40 [1]. This gradual decrease creates a completely different experience that becomes more intense after 60.
Men dealing with these changes can explore natural approaches to symptom management. Learn more about natural remedies for male andropause.
Medical definition: ADAM and late-onset hypogonadism
Medical professionals use several clinical terms for what most people call andropause:
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Androgen Deficiency in the Ageing Male (ADAM) is the preferred medical term [1]
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Late-onset hypogonadism (LOH) describes a clinical syndrome combining symptoms with biochemical evidence of testosterone deficiency [7]
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Also called age-related hypogonadism, PADAM (Partial Androgen Deficiency in Ageing Male), or TDS (Testosterone Deficiency Syndrome) [5]
LOH specifically means "a clinical and biochemically defined disease of older men with serum testosterone level below the reference parameters of younger healthy men and with symptoms of testosterone deficiency" [5].
Prevalence in men over 60
Research shows andropause becomes significantly more common with age. The statistics tell a clear story:
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Symptomatic hypogonadism affects between 2.1% and 5.7% of men aged 40-79 [7]
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The European Male Ageing Study found testosterone drops 0.4% annually for total testosterone and 1.3% for free testosterone [7]
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Men at 75 typically have less than half the testosterone levels of healthy 20-30 year olds [5]
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Studies indicate 10% to 15% of men over 60 have low testosterone levels, with rates climbing further as they age [6]
Wondering about your own levels? A blood test provides the answer. Find out more about testosterone testing in the UK.
Andropause vs low testosterone: key differences
Many men think low testosterone and andropause are the same thing. They're not. Here's what separates them:
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Diagnosis criteria: Andropause needs both symptoms and low testosterone levels—low testosterone alone is just a lab result
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Symptom threshold: The European Male Ageing Study shows diagnosis requires multiple symptoms (at least three) plus testosterone below 8.0 nmol/L [6]
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Clinical significance: Low testosterone without symptoms isn't a problem—it's the combination that matters [7]
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Contributing factors: Age drives andropause, but low testosterone can stem from obesity, Type 2 diabetes, stress, or sleep issues [7]
Nutrition plays a vital role in maintaining healthy testosterone levels. Discover the connection between nutrition and testosterone.
Men experiencing symptoms might benefit from targeted supplementation to fill nutritional gaps. View recommended multivitamin supplements.
Recognising the Symptoms in Men Aged 60 and Beyond
"These changes start small, but over time men begin noticing differences in mood, energy, and daily functioning." — Dr. Alok Kumar Jha, Senior Consultant – Urology, Yatharth Super Speciality Hospital
Image Source: Natural Endocrinology Specialists
"These changes start small, but over time men begin noticing differences in mood, energy, and daily functioning." — Dr. Alok Kumar Jha, Senior Consultant – Urology, Yatharth Super Speciality Hospital
Men over 60 experience more pronounced testosterone decline effects, making symptom recognition crucial for proper health management. The signs can vary significantly between individuals, but certain patterns consistently emerge that deserve attention.
Sexual symptoms: low libido, erectile dysfunction
Sexual changes provide the clearest indication of andropause in men over 60. Decreased sex drive represents the symptom most strongly linked to hypogonadism [5]. Those familiar morning erections that occur during REM sleep often diminish or vanish completely [5]. Erectile dysfunction becomes increasingly persistent as men age [6].
Research shows 2 in 10 men over 60 have low testosterone levels—this jumps to 3 in 10 for men in their 70s and 80s [6]. These changes can significantly impact sexual relationships that were previously satisfying.
Men experiencing sexual symptoms may benefit from exploring natural remedies for male andropause.
Physical changes: muscle loss, weight gain, fatigue
Physical manifestations extend well beyond sexual function. Men over 60 typically notice muscle mass and strength decreasing while body fat increases, particularly around the midsection [7]. This creates what some call a "large belly" or "man boobs" (gynaecomastia) [8].
Persistent fatigue becomes a common complaint, with many men losing their usual enthusiasm and energy [8]. Testosterone deficiency can reduce haemoglobin concentration by 10–20%, potentially causing mild anaemia [5].
These physical shifts often happen despite maintaining regular exercise routines, creating frustration for many. The connection between nutrition and testosterone becomes vital during this life stage.
Mental health: mood swings, depression, poor memory
Psychological symptoms can prove equally challenging. Men over 60 commonly develop mood swings, irritability, and unexplained depression [9]. Declining testosterone appears to disrupt mood regulation, creating emotional instability that wasn't present before [9].
Cognitive function may decline too, with men reporting concentration difficulties and poor short-term memory [8]. Research links lower free testosterone levels to worse cognitive function outcomes, especially in older men [5].
For those concerned about hormonal changes, a testosterone test UK can provide valuable insights.
Age-specific symptoms: 60–70 vs 70+
Symptom severity and prevalence increase with age. Men aged 60-70 show low testosterone in approximately 2 out of 10 cases [6]. Once men reach their 70s and 80s, this rises to 3 in 10 [6].
Studies reveal 18.4% of men over 70 have hypogonadism compared to just 3.1–7.0% in men aged 30–69 [5]. This dramatic increase shows how testosterone decline accelerates with advancing age.
Older men may benefit from supplementation to address nutritional gaps. Multivitamin supplements can support overall health during this transition.
What Causes Andropause in Older Men?
Multiple factors contribute to andropause in men over 60, from natural ageing to daily lifestyle choices. Understanding these causes helps you take control of this life stage.
Gradual testosterone decline after age 60
Your body's testosterone production naturally slows down as you age, creating significant hormonal shifts. Research shows testosterone levels drop 1-2% per year after age 30 [7]. This gradual reduction hits harder by age 60—studies reveal 20% of men over 60 have testosterone below normal range [10]. The situation becomes more serious by age 80, when this figure jumps to 50% [10].
Concerned about your hormone levels? A testosterone test UK provides valuable insights into your current testosterone status.
Lifestyle factors: diet, alcohol, smoking, stress
Your daily habits significantly impact testosterone production and can speed up natural decline. Key factors that lower testosterone include:
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Poor diet missing essential nutrients
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Heavy alcohol consumption
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Smoking more than 10 cigarettes daily [1]
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Chronic stress and poor sleep [8]
These lifestyle choices raise Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) levels, which reduces the testosterone available for your body to use [1]. The good news? Positive changes through nutrition and testosterone management can help reverse these effects.
Underlying health conditions: diabetes, obesity, heart disease
Existing medical conditions often make testosterone decline worse. Research shows 30% of overweight men had low testosterone, compared to just 6% of men with normal weight [2]. Similarly, 25% of men with Type 2 diabetes had low testosterone, versus 13% without diabetes [2].
Other conditions linked to testosterone decline include:
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Chronic kidney problems
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Liver cirrhosis
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Heart disease
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Sleep apnoea [2]
Psychological triggers and midlife crisis
Mental and emotional factors can trigger or worsen andropausal symptoms. Many men face what's often called a "midlife crisis" around this age—anxieties about life achievements and ageing create psychological stress [8]. This mental state can further reduce testosterone production through stress hormones.
Looking to address these multiple causes? Natural remedies for male andropause and multivitamin supplements may support your hormonal health alongside medical treatments.
How is Andropause Diagnosed in the UK?
Getting a proper diagnosis matters when andropausal symptoms start affecting your daily life. The UK's diagnostic process helps distinguish genuine hormonal deficiency from other age-related conditions that can cause similar symptoms.
When to see your GP
Book an appointment with your GP when symptoms begin impacting your quality of life. Sexual issues like decreased libido and erectile dysfunction, physical changes such as fatigue and muscle loss, or mental health concerns including mood swings and depression all warrant professional evaluation [1]. Your doctor will first rule out other conditions like stress, anxiety, or underlying health problems [3].
Many men delay seeking help for these symptoms, but early consultation typically leads to better outcomes. Natural remedies for male andropause can complement medical treatment and support your overall health.
NHS-recommended blood tests and hormone panels
Your GP will likely order specific blood tests to assess your hormonal status:
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Testosterone measurements - both total testosterone and free testosterone (the active form your body can use) [1]
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Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) - determines how much testosterone remains available [1]
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Luteinising hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) - control testosterone production [1]
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Prolactin levels - rules out other hormonal imbalances [1]
These tests determine whether your symptoms truly relate to testosterone deficiency. The NHS typically repeats tests to confirm results before making a diagnosis [11].
Testosterone test UK: what to expect
Testosterone testing in the UK follows standard procedures designed for accuracy. Blood samples are taken in the morning—ideally around 9am—when testosterone levels peak [12]. You'll need to fast overnight before providing a venous blood sample [13]. Results usually take about 7 working days, though specialist tests might take longer [12].
Your GP may refer you to an endocrinologist (hormone specialist) if results show low testosterone alongside significant symptoms [3].
Other assessments: BMI, PSA, ECG, bone density
Your doctor may conduct additional assessments beyond hormone testing:
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Body Mass Index (BMI) calculation to evaluate how weight affects hormone levels [1]
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Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test to check prostate health before considering treatment [1]
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ECG (electrocardiogram) to assess heart function [1]
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Bone density scans to check for osteoporosis, since low testosterone can weaken bones [1]
These evaluations ensure other conditions aren't causing your symptoms. Proper nutrition supports hormone health, and quality multivitamin supplements can address nutritional gaps during this process.
Treatment Options: From Lifestyle to Hormone Therapy
Image Source: Effective Sonic Wave Therapy for ED at Men's Health RI
Men with confirmed andropause don't need to accept declining health as inevitable. Treatment options range from natural lifestyle changes to medical interventions—each tailored to symptom severity and individual health needs.
Natural remedies and lifestyle changes
Simple lifestyle changes often provide the most effective first-line treatment for andropause symptoms. Regular exercise naturally supports healthy testosterone levels by reducing stress hormones like cortisol, which otherwise suppress testosterone production [4]. Quality sleep becomes equally important—most testosterone production happens during deep REM sleep phases [4].
The most impactful changes include cutting back on alcohol, stopping smoking, and managing daily stress through proven techniques [8]. These modifications work because they address the root causes rather than just masking symptoms.
Find more information about natural remedies for male andropause.
Nutrition and testosterone: what to eat
Targeted nutrition can naturally boost hormone production without medication. Foods that support healthy testosterone include:
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B vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, selenium, and zinc-rich options [14]
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Vitamin D sources like fatty fish and adequate sunlight exposure [14]
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Green tea, colourful vegetables, fruits, and nuts [4]
Limit foods that work against you: excessive sugar, too much caffeine, and heavily processed meals [4]. Learn more about nutrition and testosterone or consider quality multivitamins to fill nutritional gaps.
When is testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) considered?
TRT becomes an option when men experience significant symptoms alongside confirmed low testosterone levels. The British Association of Urological Surgeons recommends TRT specifically for men dealing with:
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Sexual problems including erectile dysfunction and low libido
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Type 2 diabetes complications
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BMI over 30 or waist circumference exceeding 102 cm [1]
Doctors carefully assess heart health and rule out any conditions that make TRT unsuitable before starting treatment [1].
Risks and side effects of TRT
TRT can be effective, but it comes with potential risks that require honest consideration:
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Higher red blood cell count (erythrocytosis) [15]
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Prostate enlargement causing urinary problems [15]
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Fluid retention and swelling [15]
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Acne breakouts, headaches, and unexpected weight gain [1]
Men with breast cancer, advanced prostate cancer, severe heart failure, sleep apnoea, or blood disorders cannot safely use TRT [1].
Monitoring and follow-up care
TRT requires ongoing medical supervision to ensure safety and effectiveness. Regular monitoring includes:
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Blood tests to keep testosterone levels within healthy ranges [1]
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PSA screenings and prostate examinations [1]
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Cholesterol and red blood cell level checks [1]
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Symptom tracking using standardised questionnaires like the Ageing Males' Symptoms (AMS) scale [16]
Men considering any treatment should start with a testosterone test UK to establish baseline hormone levels.
Conclusion
Andropause affects millions of men over 60, yet many suffer in silence thinking these changes are simply "part of getting older." While testosterone decline is natural, the symptoms don't have to control your life.
The signs are clear: decreased sex drive, muscle loss, fatigue, mood changes, and cognitive issues often signal testosterone deficiency. These symptoms become more pronounced after 60, when decades of gradual hormone decline create noticeable impacts on daily life.
What causes these changes goes beyond age alone. Poor diet, excessive drinking, smoking, chronic stress, and health conditions like diabetes and obesity can accelerate testosterone decline. The good news? Many of these factors are within your control.
Getting proper diagnosis makes all the difference. Your GP can order morning blood tests to measure testosterone, SHBG, and other hormones that reveal the true picture. Don't wait—early consultation typically leads to better outcomes.
Treatment options range from simple lifestyle changes to medical interventions. Regular exercise, better sleep, stress management, and proper nutrition can naturally support hormone production. For men with severe symptoms and confirmed low testosterone, hormone replacement therapy offers relief—though it requires careful monitoring for side effects.
Men over 60 deserve to feel energetic, maintain their sex drive, and enjoy good mental health. Testosterone decline may be inevitable, but suffering through severe symptoms isn't. Through informed choices about nutrition, exercise, stress management, and appropriate medical care when needed, you can age well rather than just age.
The key lies in taking action rather than accepting declining quality of life as normal. Your health and vitality matter at every age—and effective solutions exist to help you maintain both.
Key Takeaways
Understanding andropause empowers men over 60 to recognise symptoms, seek proper diagnosis, and explore effective treatment options for maintaining quality of life during hormonal changes.
• Andropause affects 20% of men over 60, rising to 30% in their 70s-80s, causing sexual dysfunction, muscle loss, fatigue, and mood changes through gradual testosterone decline.
• Proper diagnosis requires morning blood tests measuring testosterone, SHBG, and other hormones, combined with symptom assessment by your GP or specialist.
• Lifestyle changes including regular exercise, improved sleep, stress reduction, and proper nutrition can naturally support testosterone levels before considering medical intervention.
• Testosterone replacement therapy may help men with confirmed low levels and significant symptoms, but requires careful monitoring for side effects like increased red blood cells and prostate changes.
• Early consultation with healthcare providers leads to better outcomes, as andropause symptoms shouldn't be dismissed as normal ageing when they significantly impact daily life.
The key to managing andropause successfully lies in recognising that whilst hormonal decline is natural, severe symptoms warrant professional evaluation and treatment to maintain wellbeing in later years.
FAQs
Q1. What causes andropause in men over 60? Andropause is primarily caused by the natural decline in testosterone levels as men age. This gradual decrease, typically about 1% per year after age 30, becomes more noticeable after 60. Lifestyle factors like poor diet, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, and chronic stress can accelerate this decline. Underlying health conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and heart disease may also contribute to hormonal changes associated with andropause.
Q2. How can men reduce the impact of andropause? To minimise the effects of andropause, men should focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle. This includes eating a nutritious diet rich in vitamins and minerals that support hormone production, getting adequate sleep, exercising regularly, and managing stress. Reducing alcohol consumption and quitting smoking can also help maintain healthier testosterone levels. Additionally, addressing any underlying health conditions and consulting with a healthcare provider for personalised advice is recommended.
Q3. What are the most common symptoms of andropause in men over 60? Common symptoms of andropause in men over 60 include decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, reduced muscle mass, increased body fat (especially around the abdomen), fatigue, mood changes (such as irritability or depression), and cognitive issues like poor memory or difficulty concentrating. The severity and combination of symptoms can vary among individuals, but they typically become more pronounced with advancing age.
Q4. How is andropause diagnosed in the UK? In the UK, andropause is diagnosed through a combination of symptom assessment and blood tests. GPs typically order morning blood tests to measure total and free testosterone levels, as well as other hormones like luteinising hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). These tests are usually repeated to confirm results. Additional assessments may include body mass index (BMI) calculation, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, and bone density scans. A comprehensive evaluation helps distinguish andropause from other conditions with similar symptoms.
Q5. Is testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) always necessary for treating andropause? Testosterone replacement therapy is not always necessary for treating andropause. It's typically considered when men have significant symptoms alongside confirmed low testosterone levels. Lifestyle changes and natural remedies are often recommended as first-line approaches. However, for men with severe symptoms that significantly impact their quality of life, and who have no contraindications, TRT may be beneficial. The decision to start TRT should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider, considering the potential benefits and risks for each individual.
References
[1] - https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/male-menopause/
[2] - https://www.baus.org.uk/patients/conditions/7/male_menopause_androgen_deficiency_in_the_ageing_male/
[3] - https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/266749
[4] - https://www.drswclinics.com/news/the-andropause-symptoms-of-the-male-menopause/
[5] - https://uroweb.org/news/late-onset-hypogonadism-loh-what-does-that-mean-for-a-man
[6] - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5509975/
[7] - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10021096/
[8] - https://www.health.harvard.edu/mens-health/navigating-male-menopause
[9] - https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa0911101
[10] - https://www.heart.org/en/news/2024/06/21/is-andropause-the-same-as-male-menopause-and-should-men-worry
[11] - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4046605/
[12] - https://www.cnn.com/2024/01/23/health/male-menopause-wellness
[13] - https://www.topdoctors.co.uk/medical-articles/andropause-understanding-male-menopause/
[14] - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2544367/
[15] - https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15603-low-testosterone-male-hypogonadism
[16] - https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/male-menopause/
[17] - https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/mens-health/in-depth/male-menopause/art-20048056
[18] - https://labtestsonline.org.uk/tests/testosterone-test
[19] - https://www.centreformenshealth.co.uk/male-hormone-testing
[20] - https://www.va.gov/WHOLEHEALTHLIBRARY/tools/improving-low-testosterone-naturally.asp
[21] - https://medstudio.com/blog/natural-treatments-for-andropause
[22] - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1472881/
[23] - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9464626/
