Sexuality and the Older Adult: An Overview with Guidelines for the Health Care Professional

Research emphasis in sexuality and aging has progressed beyond earlier questions of whether sex exists and whether sexual capacity is maintained as one ages. Clinical research is thus moving into the practical realm of (1) educating health care professionals who work with, and must deal with the sexual issues of older adults, and (2) addressing neglected areas such as widowhood sexuality and homosexuality. This paper provides a current overview, along with guidelines for program development within the area of sexuality and aging. It is emphasized that any educational or therapeutic intervention should reflect a respect for the continuity of one's sexual lifestyle, and a readiness to explore alternative methods of meeting sexual and affectional needs of older adults who remain interested in their sexuality but who are disabled, without partners, or find themselves in a restricted environment.