‘Why would I want sex now?’ A qualitative study on older women's affirmative narratives on sexual inactivity in later life

Gore-Gorszewska, Gabriela

doi:10.1017/s0144686x21001690

Cited by 7 publications

(5 citation statements)

References 56 publications

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“…This is in line with the results of some recent studies [ 20 ]. However, in contrast to some observations by Gore-Gorzawska [ 4 ], no associations between church attendance and religiosity and sexuality were observed.…”

Section: Discussioncontrasting

confidence: 99%

“…It must be underlined that for the majority of women, sex remains an important part of life [ 2 ], irrespective of being in a relationship [ 3 ]. Many studies focused on sexual activity define it as penile-vaginal intercourse, whereas some older women may concentrate rather on masturbation, cuddling, touching, or oral sex, rather than restrain from sexual activities [ 4 ]. It seems that a new sexual script in older women must be developed to comply with comorbidities or the increase with age in the need for intimacy with a partner [ 5 ].…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…That pattern seems to be shaped by cultural sexual scripts, based on a strong belief in the ancillary role of women in society, where faithfulness to one partner is a must and happiness is possible only within the marriage. Such scripts are still alive in the older population, especially those with a strong commitment to the Church, which determines more traditional sexual roles and behaviors [ 4 ].…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

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Predictors of Sexual Function and Performance in Young- and Middle-Old Women

Nowosielski

2022

IJERPH

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Background: Maintaining sexual life in older women might be perceived as a measure of healthy and successful aging. This study aimed to establish the prevalence of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) based on the DSM-5 criteria and predictors of sexual performance in older women. Methods: A total of 185 women between 55 and 79 years old were included in the study. Validated scales were used to assess sexual function (Changes in Sexual Function Questionnaire (CSFQ)), the propensity for sexual excitation/inhibition (Sexual Excitation/Sexual Inhibition Inventory for Women), and sexual anxiety/avoidance (Body Exposure during Sexual Activity Questionnaire (BESAQ)). Multiple regression was used to assess the factors affecting sexual function and the prevalence of FDS. Results: Sexual distress was diagnosed in 14.1% of women, and FSD in 16.2% (n = 53), whereas sexual problems (CSFQ) were diagnosed in 33.3% of women, and distressing sexual concerns in 35.1%. Women with a lower number of male sexual partners (β = −0.22), a better attitude toward sex (β = 0.25), higher importance of sex (β = 0.31), a higher level of sexual excitation (β = 0.34), and that were sexually active (β = 0.39) had better sexual function, as evaluated by CSFQ. Conclusions: Most older women remain sexually active. The diversity of sexual activity in later life should be affirmed to encourage women to be sexually active and to strengthen the response to sexual stimuli.

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Section: Discussioncontrasting

confidence: 99%

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

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Predictors of Sexual Function and Performance in Young- and Middle-Old Women

Nowosielski

2022

IJERPH

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“…All our female participants agreed that this study provided them with some form of catharsis with respect to sexual experiences. They welcomed sexual fantasies and desires, unlike an earlier qualitative study from Poland where the themes among women were “I am glad that sex does not concern me anymore” and “I am just happy with my memories” [ 38 ].…”

Section: Resultsmentioning

confidence: 99%

“Love in the Later Years…”: Perceptions of Sex and Sexuality in Older Indian Adults — a Qualitative Exploration

Banerjee

Rao

2022

Consortium Psychiatricum

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BACKGROUND: The world faces global population ageing. With this demographic shift and increased life-expectancy, healthcare services are focused on healthy ageing. Sexual health is a vital yet neglected dimension of general health and wellbeing in older adults. This study aimed to explore sexual experiences and perceptions of sexuality among older people in India. METHODS: A qualitative approach with social constructivist paradigm was used. 20 participants aged above 60 years were recruited through purposive sampling until thematic saturation was reached. In-person, in-depth interviews were conducted using a semi-structured guide after an initial pilot study. They were audio-recorded, transcribed, and translated verbatim. Thematic analysis was conducted, and rigor ensured through triangulation and respondent validation. RESULTS: The overarching categories were sexuality as a mode of resilience, emotional stability and intimacy as attributes of sexual pleasure, and lack of sexual rights awareness. The main categories (themes) were sexual experiences (intimate touch, non-penile sex, personal meanings of sexuality), partner expectations (companionship, support, continuity of care, proximity), and barriers against sexual expression (social stereotypes, stigma, lack of audience in healthcare services). The older people were accepting of their sexual difficulties and coped through relationship dynamics. Participant voices are discussed with regard to the socio-cultural context. CONCLUSION: Sexual wellbeing is connected with ageing well. Our findings suggest that older people retain sexual desires and fantasies through changed patterns and expectations. Healthcare services, policymakers and academia need to be informed about older peoples sexual needs and rights.

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“…Qualitative DS can be promoted when it is epistemologically viable, ethically possible, and pragmatically feasible (Karhulahti, 2023). This article aims at enriching the ongoing discussion by leveraging my research experience in conducting in-depth interviews with 70 middle-aged and older adults (ranging from 50 to 82 years old) regarding their sexual lives and history, conducted as part of two research projects 1 (Gore-Gorszewska, 2021, 2023; Gore-Gorszewska et al, 2024). Through this immersive interviewing process, I have discerned several ethical and practical challenges associated with the potential for DS.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

“I’m telling you my story, not publishing a blog”: Considerations and suggestions on data sharing in qualitative health psychology research on sensitive topics

Gore-Gorszewska

2024

J Health Psychol

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Qualitative research plays a pivotal role in health psychology, offering insights into the intricacies of health-related issues. However, the specificity of qualitative methodology presents challenges in adhering to standard open science principles, including data sharing. The guidelines to address these issues are limited. Drawing from the author’s experience in conducting in-depth interviews with middle-aged and older adults regarding their sexuality, this article discusses various challenges in implementing data sharing requirements. It emphasizes factors like participants’ reasonable reluctance to share in specific populations, the depth of personal information gleaned from comprehensive interviews, concerns surrounding potential data misuse both within and outside academic circles, and the complex issue of obtaining informed consent. A universal approach to data sharing in qualitative research proves impractical, emphasizing the necessity for adaptable, context-specific guidelines that acknowledge the methodology’s nuances. Striking a balance between transparency and ethical responsibility requires tailored strategies and thoughtful consideration.

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‘Why would I want sex now?’ A qualitative study on older women's affirmative narratives on sexual inactivity in later life

Cited by 7 publications

References 56 publications

Predictors of Sexual Function and Performance in Young- and Middle-Old Women

Predictors of Sexual Function and Performance in Young- and Middle-Old Women

“Love in the Later Years…”: Perceptions of Sex and Sexuality in Older Indian Adults — a Qualitative Exploration

“I’m telling you my story, not publishing a blog”: Considerations and suggestions on data sharing in qualitative health psychology research on sensitive topics

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