Sexuality, self-esteem and sexual dysfunction among the elderly

Abstract

Introduction: The aging process is marked by physiological changes, which can feed stereotypes mainly of dysfunction and dissatisfaction. It is noted that there are prejudices related to active sexuality in old age. Objective: To describe the sociodemographic, economic profile, self-esteem and sexual dysfunction, knowledge and attitudes of the elderly; compare the knowledge and attitudes related to the sexuality of the elderly with sex and correlate the knowledge and attitudes related to the sexuality of the elderly with age, self-esteem and sexual dysfunction. Methods: Quantitative, cross-sectional, analytical and observational study. Data were collected via telephone contact, between October 2020 and May 2021. 218 elderly people living in the urban area of Uberaba-MG participated. A sociodemographic questionnaire, the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, the Attitudes and Knowledge Scale about Sexuality in Aging (ASKAS), the female version of the Sexual Quotient (SQ-F) and the male version of the Sexual Quotient (SQ-M) were used. Results: The average age of the participants was 74.3 (SD=7.97). Regarding sexual satisfaction/performance, most women reported it as unfavorable to regular and men as good to excellent. Elderly men had better knowledge about sexuality compared to elderly women, and a less conservative attitude than women. Greater knowledge about sexuality was related to younger age, higher self-esteem and greater sexual satisfaction/performance among men. Conclusion: It is essential that professionals address the issue of sexuality among the elderly.