In Spring 1999, The Kinsey Institute for Research in Sex, Gender, and Reproduction and the Sexuality Information and Education Council of the United States (SIECUS) jointly sponsored an invitational meeting on "Sexuality in Midlife and Beyond" which will result in an edited volume by that name. One of the purposes of the meeting was to identify issues relevant to sexuality education efforts to be directed toward older populations. I will review some of the main themes of the meeting particularly as they relate to: 1) biological aspects of aging and sexuality, and 2) psychological and relationship issues. The biological aspects include the changes in hormonal status, changes in general physical health, and changes in physical appearance that may affect sexual functioning. Psychological and relational issues to be explored include: How do we measure quality of sexual life (sexual frequency versus relationship satisfaction)? Is sexuality part of overall quality of life? What issues are faced by those who are single (dating in older years) versus those in couples? Are different issues faced depending on sexual orientation? How is STD/HIV risk dealt with in aging populations? How are recent pharmacological interventions such as Viagra affecting sexual expression and sexual relationships in those in midlife and beyond? Gender differences will be discussed. The need for research and education related to sexuality in midlife and beyond will be highlighted.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant will be able to : 1. Identify biological issues related to aging that affect sexuality in midlife and beyond. 2. Articulate psychological issues that affect sexuality as people age. 3. Cite relationship factors that affect sexual expression as people age. 4. Describe gender differences in the ways biological, psychological, and relationship factors related to aging may affect sexuality
Keywords: Aging, Sexuality
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.