Correlates of Sexual Lifestyles Among Older Adults Living With HIV in China: Findings From the Sexual Well-being (SWELL) Study

Abstract

Abstract Sexual lifestyles are closely related to overall human health and well-being. Few studies have focused on sexual lifestyles among older adults living with HIV (OALHIV), especially in low- and middle-income countries. This study is a part of the sexual well-being among older adults in China (SWELL) study, which is a multicenter cross-sectional study focused on sexual health among older adults aged 50 years and older. Participants were 680 OALHIV (≥50 years old) from the SWELL study conducted from June 2020 to December 2022. Data were collected through one-on-one interviews. We used logistic regression to assess the correlates of sexual activity and sexual satisfaction. Among all participants, 37.1% were sexually active. Being older, male, in a steady relationship and employed were associated with being sexually active. The prevalence of sexual satisfaction was 69.8% among sexually active OALHIV. Being homosexual and reporting a better general health status were associated with sexual satisfaction. The OALHIV who have depressive symptoms were less likely to report sexual satisfaction. To support holistic healthy aging among OALHIV, it is important for healthcare providers to be educated about the importance of enquiring about sexual activity, satisfaction and problems and addressing concerns while conveying sex-positive attitudes during clinical reviews, as these are still critical aspects of their health and well-being.