Sexual Satisfaction and Associated Factors Among Older Cancer Survivors

Abstract

As little is known about sexual satisfaction among older (≥ 65 years) cancer survivors, this study examined sexual satisfaction defined as physical pleasure and emotional satisfaction in sexual relationships, including associated factors. This secondary analysis of the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project round 3 data set included 173 partnered older cancer survivors. The data included ratings of physical pleasure, emotional satisfaction, importance of sexual activity, mental and physical health, and scores of sexual function (the presence of problems; if any, the extent of related bother) and social support and strain from partners. The sample's mean age was 74.30 years (SD = 6.36). Most were male (n = 120, 69.36%) and White (n = 139, 80.35%). Older adults reported they were “very” satisfied with sexual relationships both physically and emotionally: mean (SD) = 2.88 (1.01) and 3.18 (0.77), respectively. Seventy (40.46%) had problems with sexual function that were bothersome. Adjusted linear regression models showed physical pleasure was associated with perceived physical health (β = 0.22) and social support (β = 0.19); and emotional satisfaction was associated with social support (β = 0.39) and strain from partners (β = −0.23). Sexual function was not associated with sexual satisfaction. In conclusion, perceived health and social factors may be more influential than sexual function in older cancer survivors' sexual satisfaction, but future research is warranted to confirm these relationships. A focus on relational aspects of sexual health may provide a broader array of options to improve older cancer survivors' sexual satisfaction.