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Sexuality and Ageing

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  14 November 2008

Ole J. Thienhaus ,
Elizabeth A. Conter  and
H. Bruce Bosmann
Ole J. Thienhaus
Affiliation:
University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Department of Geriatrics, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267–0555 USA.
Elizabeth A. Conter
Affiliation:
University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Department of Geriatrics, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267–0555 USA.
H. Bruce Bosmann
Affiliation:
University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Department of Geriatrics, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267–0555 USA. Martha Betty Semmons Professor of Geriatrics.
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Abstract

Ageing itself abolishes neither the need nor the capacity for sexual activity. A number of studies confirm the continuance of sexual activity in old age. Normal physiological changes with age affect erectile function and ejaculation in males, and the vaginal tissue in females. Psychological and social factors that affect sexual function in old age include the individual's degree of sexual activity throughout earlier life, the psychological resiliency in adapting to the altered physiological conditions, demographic factors, and society's attitudes towards sex in old age. Furthermore, pathologies that are more prevalent among the elderly can interfere with sexual function.

Type
Research Article
Information
Ageing & Society , Volume 6 , Issue 1 , March 1986 , pp. 39 - 54
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1986

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