Destabilizing
Misconceptions: Exploring a Few Myths about Sexual Intimacy Among Elderly
Individuals
Sexual intimacy is an essential component of an
individual’s life at all stages of the cycle. The dominant public discourse on
sexuality and sexual intimacy, however, that prevails is that sexual intimacy
is the province of the young, not for the older people to engage in. The sexual
functioning of older persons has received substantially little attention,
perhaps springing mainly from the belief that older persons are asexual.
It becomes crucial to debunk the myths about sexual
intimacy among elderly individuals and promote a more accurate understanding of
older person’s sexuality. Here are a few common misconceptions:
- Older
people are no longer interested in sex- Asexuality is one of the prominent
stereotypes that one experiences in old age, a product of social norms and
religious beliefs. Aging leads to older adults experiencing some sexual
changes. A decline in the testosterone level among older men and menopause
among older women are often posed as the reasons for the decline of sexual
intimacy among older persons.
- Older
people no longer engage in sexual intimacy because they no longer find it
enjoyable- older persons are often vested with the role of ‘carriers of
tradition,’ and the dominant societal perception holds that this role
outweighs their desires for sexual intimacy.
- The
need to broaden the definition of sexual intimacy- Sexual intimacy does
not constrict itself to the physical act of sex but also involves the
emotional closeness between partners.
- Older
individuals do not need access to sexual health information and resources-
Sexual health education and resources are crucial for all age cohorts.
Providing older adults with accurate information about sexual health,
addressing their concerns, and ensuring access to healthcare resources
By dispelling these myths and promoting a more accurate understanding of
older person’s sexuality, we can foster a society that respects and supports
sexual health and well-being across the lifespan.
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