Sexuality and Aging

1. Sexuality and Aging Gerontology 410 Jan /2011

2. Introduction • Aging Adults are the fastest growing segment in society. They are experiencing increased longevity and due to compression theory, much of their health care is concentrated in the last years of their life, and so they are relatively healthy up to then. • We are a society however that reveres youthfulness, reproductive ability and family life to the extent that we still demonstrate significant ageism around the stereotypes that old people are unattractive, asexual, and incapable of sexual behavior and activity.

3. Introduction • The media plays a large role in establishing and re-enforcing these attitudes. In 1982 a study of 106 cultures determined that the continuance of sexual behavior in the elderly in many societies is in fact culturally determined. Displays of sexual behavior or sexual activity in the aged, particularly those in care, is seen as a behavioral problem, often disapproved, or dismissed as inappropriate. • When we study the historical development of sexual attitudes and behavior, we will see how early established patterns

4. Introduction • transcend generations and in fact may alter current perceptions and attitudes. • We will also need to note that the increase in longevity has impacted aging physiology and the impact of living with chronic diseases over lengthy periods. • The aging male body will experience sexual impotence, and changes in erectile function and performance. In the female, she will undergo not only physical atrophy in the vagina, but changes due to the lack or decrease in estrogen after menopause

5. Introduction • We must also be aware of the impact of cognitive decline from early mild impairment to major disorders of cognitive dysfunction. This has a profound impact on sexual behavior such as dis-inhibition, relationship difficulties and changing roles in couples such as care-giving super-ceding the marital role of spouse. • Other surveys have found that the elderly define sexual expression quite differently than younger adults.

6. Introduction • Again we must not forget that lifelong patterns of sexual behavior are maintained over the life cycle and it is important to stress that sexuality is a life-long process and behavior however it is manifested. • The aged are more exposed to a variety of endocrine, vascular, and neurological disorders which impact and often interfere with sexual function. If we add to this their experience and exposure to prescription medications and surgical interventions, we can see how health factors can be a major cause of sexual problems.

7. Introduction • Sexual attitudes are formed early, and may impair the ability to enjoy sex in later life. These attitudes are modified by level of sexual interest in the individual and prior frequency of sexual activity. Given current demography, many elderly would be continuing with an active sex life over the life cycle if they could find appropriate and available partners. We also need to add the factors of “sameness” or even boredom in long term relationships which have older couples simple cease sexual behavior. Data is now available to describe these concerns.

8. Introduction • The whole issue of retirement and role change in the older male may have an impact on their attitudes, behavior and general levels of personal esteem. These issues will not infrequently spill over into their sexual behavior. • For those seniors who reside in some form of care facility we can add the issues of lack of privacy to express sexual feelings, inhibiting staff attitudes, and the overall lack of opportunity.

9. Introduction • As far as society is concerned, clearly education is needed to dispel the myths, stereotypes and self-fulfilling attitudes about the aged and sexuality. Individuals themselves need to recognize that full sexual expression is part of the extent of adult-hood. The elderly themselves need opportunity to become more educated and aware of changes in their sexual behavior. Studies have shown that more accepting attitudes and knowledge leads to a more healthy sexual life for seniors a reduction in negative attitudes to those who are in the position to care for them.

10. Introduction • There are several excellent web sites to check out in this area as follows: www.agepage.com/sex.htmwww.umkc.edu/sites/hsw/age/index.html