Older portuguese and mexican adults and sexual well-being? A cross-cultural qualitative study. (13th April 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Humboldt, S. Von; Mendoza-Ruvalcaba, N.; Low, G.; Leal, I.
• Is Part Of: European psychiatry. Volume 64:Supplement 1(2021)
• Page Start: S743
• Page End: S743
• Publication Date: 2021-04-13
• Subjects: Mexican -- older adults -- sexual well-being -- Portuguese; Psychiatry -- Periodicals; Mental illness -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; 616.89
• DOI: 10.1192/j.eurpsy.2021.1969
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0924-9338

Abstract

Abstract : Introduction: A cross-cultural qualitative study about older portuguese and mexican adults and sexual well-being. Objectives: Sexual well-being (SWB) refers to the subjective emotional and cognitive evaluation of the quality of the individual's sexuality, it plays a relevant role in quality of life and health promotion on old age and has cross-cultural implications. The aim of this study is to analyse comparatively the perspectives of older adults on their SWB in Portugal and Mexico. Methods: Data were collected from 86 Portuguese and 80 Mexican community-dwelling participants aged 65 years and older, using a semi-structured interview protocol. Older adults were inquired about their perceptions on what contributes to their sexual well-being. Socio-demographic data were also enquired. Content analysis was used to identify key themes. Results: Outcomes indicated eight themes: eroticism, supportive relationship, positive self-concept, health and self-care, romance, active life, tenderness and care, and no pain and no pregnancy restrictions, for both samples. Eroticism was the most frequent theme reported by Portuguese participants (31.4%) and health and self-care were the most frequent theme reported by Mexican participants (26.5%). Conclusions: The empirical results of this study indicated that SWB is strongly influenced by socio-cultural and psychosocial values. This cross-cultural comparison between Portugal and Mexico contributes to understand this concept in old age with different perspectives and place a scenario for future culture-adapted interventions and comprehensive policies. Disclosure: No significant relationships.