ACCEPTED MANUSCRIPT ABSTRACTCervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide (WHO, 2016). In many developed countries the incidence of cervical cancer has been significantly reduced by the introduction of organised screening programmes however, in the UK, a fall in screening coverage is becoming a cause for concern. Much research attention has been afforded to younger women but age stratified mortality and incidence data suggest that older women's screening attendance is also worthy of study. This paper provides a review of current evidence concerning the psycho-social influences that older women experience when Highlights There has been a lack of research on older women and cervical screening  This is at odds with age stratified incidence and mortality data  Embarrassment and logistical issues may deter older women from cervical screening  Psychological, emotional and physical age related changes can also play a role  Further research to enable informed decision-making among older women is required ACCEPTED MANUSCRIPT