Misconceptions about older adults’ sexuality can cause ageist beliefs. Here’s what one study found – IPM Newsroom

Society’s Beliefs About Aging and Sex: Challenging Ageism and Misconceptions

A recent study explores how misconceptions about aging and sex can complicate the acceptance of older adults’ sexual lives. The study, conducted by Liza Berdychevsky, professor of recreation, sport, and tourism at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and Iulia Fratila, an assistant professor of global and community health at George Mason University, surveyed 270 young adults aged 18 to 35 about their perceptions of sexuality in older adulthood and general attitudes towards sex.

Ageist Views and Misconceptions

The study found that while young adults have a moderate level of knowledge and are typically open-minded regarding later-life sexuality, ageist views and misconceptions still exist. Some of the key findings include:

• More than one in four young adults incorrectly believed that sex might increase the chance of heart attacks for older adults.
• About 12% mistakenly thought that sex in later years could be bad for overall health.
• Roughly one in five believed that older men and women can’t be partners to each other for sex and need younger partners instead.

These misconceptions can potentially harm older adults’ sexual expression and limit their willingness to seek help if issues arise.

The Impact of Ageism on Older Adults

Older adults can internalize ageism, leading them to limit their willingness and confidence to seek help if issues with their sexual life do arise. Stereotypes portrayed in movies and media further marginalize and stereotype older adults, impacting their psychological well-being and self-esteem.

The Importance of Sexual Health in Overall Well-being

It is crucial to recognize that sexual health is a part of overall well-being. Numerous research studies have shown that sexual activity in later life has numerous health benefits, including improved cardiovascular function, relaxation, decreased pain sensitivity, and reduced depressive symptoms. It also plays a significant role in psychological and social well-being.

Educating Young People and Challenging Stereotypes

Better sexual education of young people can help alleviate fears many young people have about mortality and aging. It is essential to develop appropriate sexual health education throughout life, tailored to each life stage, with the understanding that there is no expiration date on sexuality. Representation and inclusivity in discussions about aging and sex are also crucial to challenge stereotypes and promote a more comprehensive understanding.

Future Initiatives

Efforts are underway to develop an app with tailored sexual health education messages for older adults. The goal is to provide resources and support to older adults in fulfilling their sexual needs and desires. By removing ageist inhibitions, individuals can act upon their changing needs and find fulfillment in their sexual lives.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
• SDG 5: Gender Equality
• SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

• SDG 3.4: By 2030, reduce by one-third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being.
• SDG 5.6: Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform for Action and the outcome documents of their review conferences.
• SDG 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion, or economic or other status.
• SDG 11.7: By 2030, provide universal access to safe, inclusive, and accessible, green, and public spaces, in particular for women and children, older persons, and persons with disabilities.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

• Indicator for SDG 3.4: Prevalence of non-communicable diseases and their risk factors.
• Indicator for SDG 5.6: Proportion of women aged 15-49 years who make their own informed decisions regarding sexual relations, contraceptive use, and reproductive health care.
• Indicator for SDG 10.2: Proportion of people who feel safe walking alone around the area they live.
• Indicator for SDG 11.7: Proportion of the population with convenient access to public transport, by sex, age, and persons with disabilities.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Note: The indicators provided in the table are examples and may not be directly mentioned or implied in the article. They are selected based on the targets identified and their relevance to measuring progress towards those targets.

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Source: ipmnewsroom.org

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