Análisis de los factores socio-demográficos y personales asociados a las actitudes y comportamientos sexuales del adulto mayor en la población de Santa Rosa

Abstract

Although sexuality is an important part of the well-being of the individual, research on the topic in older people is still scarce. Exploring the sexual activity of people over 65 in Santa Rosa (Ecuador), we found that, despite the fact that sexual activity frequency is higher among men and they practice more intercourse and masturbation, older men and women report similar satisfaction rates and concern for their sex life. Educational level and the existence of previous partners would be explanatory factors for male sexual inactivity. In addition, not having a partner currently would constitute the sociodemographic factor determining female sexual inactivity. Results established the sexual desire as a variable that allows differentiating sexually active and non-active older people. Besides, we can undertand this factorn as a good predictor of sexual inactivity in older women. Also confirming gender differences in attitude towards sexuality, negative beliefs around loveless sex correctly classify practically the entire inactive female sample. We understand that a deeper understanding of the factors associated with sexual activity of older men and women can contribute to the design of interventions in health and socio-community fields.