Sexuality in Later Life: A Descriptive Study of Sexual Desire, Expression and Satisfaction
Atit Prasetya Maharani (a), Rahmi Setiyani (b*), Endang Triyanto (b)
a) Sumbang 2 Public Health Center, Banyumas
b) Nursing Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, Jenderal Soedirman University
*rahmi.setiyani[at]unsoed.ac.id
Abstract
Background: Sexuality is an important aspect of life, regardless age. Sexuality has broad meaning, encompassing not only physical, but also psychological and social aspects. Elderly experiences decline in physical functioning. However, they still have sexual needs that must be fulfilled. Objective: This study aims to describe sexuality in older people, including desire, expression and satisfaction. Methods: This study used a descriptive quantitative design. A total of 98 elderly who selected using consecutive technique sampling was involved in this study. Sexual desire, expression and satisfaction were measured using a questionnaire adapted from previous studies. Results: Most respondents, either male or female elderly still had sexual desire (83.3 % and 76% respectively). However, sexual desire was likely to change with age and health status. Many of respondents still did sexual activities to fulfill their sexual needs, including intercourse, hugging and kissing, though not had them regularly (66.3%, 53.1% and 87.8% respectively). Giving support was the most likely means of expressing emotional intimacy (M=1.523). Respondents achieved sexual satisfaction through communication as well as sexual intercourse almost equally (M=0.99 and M=0.92 respectively). Conclusion: Elderly people still had sexual desire and were still sexually active. They used both physical and emotional means to fulfill their sexual needs. Communication as well as sexual activities was equally important to achieve sexual satisfaction.
Keywords: Aging, elderly, intimacy, relationship, spouse
Topic: Nursing