Management of sexual health during old age

Abstract

Discussion on sexual health revolves around an individual’s ability to (a) be intimate with a partner, (b) communicate about sexual needs and desires, (c) be sexually functional, (d) act intentionally and responsibly, and (e) set appropriate sexual boundaries. Sexually functional indicates to have desire, become aroused, and obtain sexual fulfilment. The author of this work argues that in the context of old age or elderly people, there exists misconception that older adults are neither sexually active nor interested in sex, it no so. They have sexual desires, however, the extent (and nature) may vary. The fact is that older adults are still sexually active, although the frequency of sexual activity tends to decline with age. In terms of need for research-led discussion, it is important to note that sexual health is of lifelong importance; it is vital for overall health and wellbeing. More specifically, older people have specific needs relating to their sexual health. Sexual health throughout the life course is increasingly recognised as important to maintaining one's overall ‘health’, and ‘well-being’ (including ‘relationships’). However, evidence on effective interventions to support later-life sexual health is limited. It is pertinent to note that at advanced (old) age, older adults encounter several challenges in matters pertaining to fulfilment of sexual desire due to complex and multiple factors. Understanding sexual activity of older adults requires deeper insight into physical, mental and emotional aspects of health, in its totality. This paper aims to research into how people during old age can better manage their sexual health. Secondary data (‘qualitative’ in nature) have been used, and method of data analysis is ‘descriptive’. The paper briefly concludes that (a) people of both sexes during their old age are (still) sexually active, and (b) prioritizing self-care (keeping physical and emotional well-being) is crucial for sexual health among older adults. Communication is key to maintain healthy sexual life at later stages of life; elderly people need to learn to be open to mutually finding new ways, that “best suits them”, for the dual purposes of enjoying (a) sexual intercourse, and (b) intimacy.