Aging and Sexual Health Lecture Reflection

            Last Friday, we had a guest lecture on aging and sexual health. Some of the key topics discussed myths of older adults when it comes to sexual health and the physical changes with sexual health, the differences between men and women when it comes to sexual health, and other factors that impact sexuality for older clients.

            One myth that was discussed during are lecture was that older adults are asexual. Many times there is a decline in sexual activity; however, many couples still remain active as they get older. Compared to aging, emotional wellbeing and the quality of the relationship have a bigger impact on whether or not a couple is active. Some physical changes for females when it comes to sexual response are hormone fluctuations, diminished lubrication, and thinning of the vaginal barrel and part of vulva.  In men, some physical changes that occur are decrease in testosterone, decreased blood flow, and sperm cell production drops.

            There are many differences between men and women when it comes to sexuality. The sexual response between men and woman are opposite. For women, first comes arousal then desire, which leads to an orgasm; while with men, it is desire that first appears then arousal, which leads to an orgasm. Because women’s sexual response starts with arousal, there are many things that can stop the process, such as stress and having other things on your mind.

            Some other factors that can affect sexuality are medications, which could have side effects that pertain to sexuality. Alcohol, smoking, and drugs can also significantly affect one’s sexuality. Body image, especially for females, and vaginal shame also plays a big part in sexuality. Lastly, and I believe most importantly, the quality of the relationship between the couple can affect the sexuality between them.

            Occupational therapists and occupational therapy students can open up a conversation with clients about sexual activity by using the PLISSIT model. Once given permission, one intervention that can be done on this topic is education on energy conservation when it comes to sexual activity. We can discuss a plan, prioritize what is important about the activity, and discuss pacing that could be done throughout the activity. Something else that could be helpful is to educate a group of older adults on certified sex therapy, so that they know that that is a resource for them if they need or want it. These are just some ways that occupational therapy can help with this occupation, but there is so much more that we can do.