Sexuality and Ageing

Ole J. Thienhaus, Elizabeth A. Conter, Bruce H. Bosmann

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

6 Scopus citations

Abstract

Ageing itself abolishes neither the need nor the capacity for sexual activity. A number of studies confirm the continuance of sexual activity in old age. Normal physiological changes with age affect erectile function and ejaculation in males, and the vaginal tissue in females. Psychological and social factors that affect sexual function in old age include the individual's degree of sexual activity throughout earlier life, the psychological resiliency in adapting to the altered physiological conditions, demographic factors, and society's attitudes towards sex in old age. Furthermore, pathologies that are more prevalent among the elderly can interfere with sexual function.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)39-54
Number of pages16
JournalAgeing and Society
Volume6
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Mar 1986

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Social Psychology
  • Health(social science)
  • Arts and Humanities (miscellaneous)
  • Geriatrics and Gerontology
  • Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

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