PERCEPTION OF OLDER ADULTS ABOUT THEIR SEXUALITY: PROFESSIONAL ROLE OF MIDWIVES

Abstract

Objective: to describe the perception of older adults regarding their sexuality and how they experience it, as well as to determine the educational role that the midwife should assume and to propose pertinent actions based on the findings obtained.

Materials and methods: a descriptive qualitative study was conducted. Data collection was carried out through semi-structured interviews with participants from the Older Adults Centers of Independencia and San Miguel. Content analysis was used for data processing.

Results: a total of twelve interviews were conducted. Most older adults reported maintaining strong friendships; many expressed being affected by the physical changes experienced with aging, although they also indicated acceptance of these changes. In general, older adults associated the concept of sexuality primarily with sexual activity itself. Regarding sexual desire, an equal number of participants mentioned that their sexual desire had not diminished, while others reported a decrease or even an absence of desire with aging. Sexual activity was more frequent among those with a partner compared to single individuals. Predominantly, older adults expressed dissatisfaction with the sexual health care provided by health personnel.

Conclusion: sexual desire and sexual activity persist in older age. It is crucial to normalize the sexuality of older adults within society. Older Adults Centers represent strategic spaces to promote sexual education and to provide responses to their concerns.