“Love in the Later Years…”: Perceptions of Sex and Sexuality in Older Indian Adults — a Qualitative Exploration

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The world faces global population ageing. With this demographic shift and increased life-expectancy, healthcare services are focused on healthy ageing. Sexual health is a vital yet neglected dimension of general health and wellbeing in older adults. This study aimed to explore sexual experiences and perceptions of sexuality among older people in India.
 METHODS: A qualitative approach with social constructivist paradigm was used. 20 participants aged above 60 years were recruited through purposive sampling until thematic saturation was reached. In-person, in-depth interviews were conducted using a semi-structured guide after an initial pilot study. They were audio-recorded, transcribed, and translated verbatim. Thematic analysis was conducted, and rigor ensured through triangulation and respondent validation.
 RESULTS: The overarching categories were sexuality as a mode of resilience, emotional stability and intimacy as attributes of sexual pleasure, and lack of sexual rights awareness. The main categories (themes) were sexual experiences (intimate touch, non-penile sex, personal meanings of sexuality), partner expectations (companionship, support, continuity of care, proximity), and barriers against sexual expression (social stereotypes, stigma, lack of audience in healthcare services). The older people were accepting of their sexual difficulties and coped through relationship dynamics. Participant voices are discussed with regard to the socio-cultural context.
 CONCLUSION: Sexual wellbeing is connected with ageing well. Our findings suggest that older people retain sexual desires and fantasies through changed patterns and expectations. Healthcare services, policymakers and academia need to be informed about older peoples sexual needs and rights.

Aging, sexual intimacy, and challenges in contemporary India: A qualitative study

“…They experienced various negative consequences and were charged guilty against the “prescribed timetable” (Ménard et al, 2015 ). Banerjee and Rao ( 2022 ) in their study on perception of sexuality at later life found that there are common myths in Indian society as “ older people are asexual, people should not discuss sex at later life, spirituality and sexuality are antagonistic in older people, one needs to be ashamed and guilty if sexual thoughts occur in old age .” Due to these types of stereotypic beliefs, people at a later age could not muster the courage to express their desire, sexual expression, and interest. Past studies confirm that family transitions adhere to strict deadlines for each event, especially the childbearing process (Zepelin et al, 1987 ; Peterson, 1996 ; Settersten and Hägestad, 1996a ).…”

“…Past studies confirm that family transitions adhere to strict deadlines for each event, especially the childbearing process (Zepelin et al, 1987 ; Peterson, 1996 ; Settersten and Hägestad, 1996a ). In Indian society, it is considered that sex is only for procreation, and in later life, involving in sexual activity is considered as a stigma (Banerjee and Rao, 2022 ). Sexual intimacy should be stopped when their kids grow above puberty.…”

Understanding and Addressing Older Adults’ Loneliness: The Social Relationship Expectations Framework

“…Intimacy: feeling close, understood, and listened to. Older adults expect to have intimacy and closeness in their social relationships (Banerjee & Rao, 2022). As a foundation, older adults expect to be loved, accepted, and understood by close others (ten Bruggencate et al, 2018).…”

“…An aspect of intimacy that is often overlooked among older adults is sexual intimacy. Relationship expectations concerning romantic partners—especially expectations for sexual pleasure—change with age ( Banerjee & Rao, 2022 ). Both older men and women value sexual intimacy as an important part of their romantic relationships and life satisfaction, but age-related challenges to sexual intimacy may vary by gender ( Kolodziejczak et al, 2019 ).…”

“…. in body and mind”), not necessarily sexual pleasure through physical stimulation ( Banerjee & Rao, 2022 ).…”