Principles and Practice of Geriatic Medicine
Chapter One
Sexuality and Aging
John E. Morley
Saint Louis University School of Medicine and Saint Louis Veterans' Affairs
Medical Center, St Louis,
MO, USA
INTRODUCTION
Sexuality remains an important component of quality of
life throughout the life span. The spectrum of sexuality
and aging is outlined in Table 1. The full expression of
sexuality is dependent on biological, psychological, and
social factors. Testosterone is a driver of sexuality in both
sexes, but its effect is modulated by psychological and social
factors. The effects of aging on sexuality can create major
anxiety, but with adequate education, sexuality can remain
enjoyable throughout life. There is much misinformation
about sexuality. While open discussion of sexuality has
become much more common in the last 40 years, many older
persons come from a generation where sexuality remains a
taboo subject. This chapter will explore both the biology of
sexuality and aging, as well as the emergence of the special
needs of a substantial cohort of older gays and their unique
needs. The role of disease in sexuality of older persons will
be addressed. Final ... read full excerpt from Principles and Practice of Geriatric Medicine ebook
