What factors are involved in sexuality in late adulthood?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Just as in middle age, good sex in the past predicts good sex in the future. For example, five decades of research has consistently shown that older people generally maintain sexual interest and remain sexually capable and active well into their 80s and often 90s. Research conducted in Europe, the United States, Australia, and Asia confirms that many older people continue to view sexual interest and activity as important.
The frequency of sexual activity declines with age, but sexual satisfaction often remains unchanged. In one study, 54% of men and 21% of women ages 70-80 reported having sexual intercourse within the past year, and nearly one quarter of those men and women had intercourse more than once a week (Nicolosi et al., 2006). One third of a sample of 75- to 85-year-old men reported having at least one sexual encounter within the past year. Likewise, in a 30-year longitudinal study of nearly 2,800 Australian men, 40% of those aged 75-79, but only 11% of those aged 90-95, reported having had sex in the past year. Reasons for lack of sexual activity include physical problems, lack of interest, partner's lack of interest, partner's physical problems, and the loss of a partner.
The nature of sexual expression shifts with age, encompassing an array of behaviors (e.g., self-stimulation, noncoital activity with partners) as well as sexual activity in both long-term and new relationships. Because of the hormonal changes that accompany menopause, women may experience lack of vaginal lubrication and therefore find intercourse uncomfortable. With increasing age, males' erections tend to take longer to achieve, are less frequent, and more difficult to sustain than was the case when they were younger; however these normative changes should not be mistaken for erectile dysfunction. Many factors may diminish sexual response and satisfaction: cigarette smoking, heavy drinking, obesity, poor health, and attitudes toward sexuality and aging, among others. Many illnesses encountered in advancing age (e.g., arthritis, heart disease, diabetes, Parkinson's disease, stroke, cancer, and depression) can have a negative impact on an individual's interest or participation in sexual activity. Likewise, prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements may have side effects that can alter or impair sexual function.
Sexual activity is a correlate of health, as those who report good health are more likely to be sexually active. However, just as during other phases of life, there is a bidirectional relationship: Sexual activity is likely to enhance health by reducing stress and improving positive affect and well-being.