Predictive variables of sexual inactivity in the elderly

[摘要] Extensive research in recent decades has noted the importance of sexual activity to older people’s health, well-being and quality of life. This study aims to understand the factors that potentially explain sexual inactivity in older populations. In addition to the sociodemographic factors that have traditionally been associated with sexual activity, we examined the explanatory potential and sensitivity of the perception of health and attitudes towards sexuality in the estimation of sexual inactivity in the previous year in a sample of 200 subjects between 62 and 91 years old (M = 71.30, SD = 5.48). The results suggest significant percentages of variance explained by the regression model which included variables such as having a partner, age and place of origin (R2 = .295). Our results also point to the fact that both perception and concern for sexual health, and opinions about sex before marriage or sex without love, would explain sexual inactivity in the elderly. These results suggest the potential of interventions centred on stereotypes and attitudes towards sexuality.

[学科分类] 心理学（综合）

[关键词] Sexual inactivity;Elderly;Self-perceived health;Attitudes towards sexuality;Sociodemographic factors