Aging and Sexual Health: A Cross-Sectional Survey of Patients in a Canadian Urban Academic Family Health Team. Issue 3 (3rd September 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lurie, Erin; Nathwani, Meera; Slater, Morgan; Pascoal, Erica; Chadwick, Sarah; Cmorejova, Jana; Guiang, Charlie
• Is Part Of: Canadian journal on aging. Volume 39:Issue 3(2020)
• Page Start: 365
• Page End: 372
• Publication Date: 2020-09-03
• Subjects: vieillissement, -- la santé sexuelle, -- la sexualité, -- la médicine familiale, -- les soins primaires, -- Canada, -- les patients, -- l'enquête; aging, -- sexual health, -- sexuality, -- family medicine, -- primary care, -- Canada, -- patients, -- survey; Gerontology -- Periodicals; Gerontology -- Canada -- Periodicals; 612.6705
• DOI: 10.1017/S0714980819000734
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0714-9808

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Primary care physicians are in a position to recognize sexuality as a core component of health. Data examining the sexual behaviours of Canadians over the age of 50 and the role of primary care in this domain is lacking. A cross-sectional survey was administered to patients over the age of 50, which assessed the importance of sexual activity, problems, and preferences in discussing sexual health with their primary care providers. A total of 39 per cent of patients indicated ongoing sexual activity and 52% of male participants reported current sexual activity compared with 25 per cent of females ( p < 0.01). More males reported sexual activity as important than did females (69% vs. 45%, p < 0.01). Participants identifying sexual health concerns discussed physical dysfunctions more than emotional, social, or global health concerns ( p < 0.01). More male participants discussed sexual health concerns with their family physician than did females ( p < 0.01). The results of our study indicate that many individuals over the age of 50 continue to be sexually active, and that physical and non-physical concerns directly impact participation in sexual activity.