Sexuality and Well-Being Among Older Women: A Cross-Cultural Approach.

Sexuality and Well-Being Among Older Women: A Cross-Cultural Approach, Doris Vasconcellos, Kim VionDury, and Dominique Kuntz, Universite Rene-Descartes, France; Rosa Ferreira Novo, Universite de Lisbonne; Odair Perugini De Castro, Angela Ruscbel, and Maria Clara Pinheiro De Paula Couto, Universidade da Terceira Idade, Brazil; Alain Giami, Inserm, France

Although aging is a biopsychosocial process characterized by recurring physiological changes, the subjective experience of aging is influenced by cultural representations and stereotypes. This is particularly true of issues related to sexuality and aging and especially among older women. This study investigated how women, enjoying good health and an autonomous social life, accounted for experiences of sexual pleasure and satisfaction, as well as how they described experiences of sexuality. A qualitative, semi-structured interview schedule designed for use across cultures was administered to women past menopause (52 to 74 years old) in Brazil, France, and Portugal. In-depth interviews were carried out by clinical psychologists with 10 women in each country (N = 30). Issues explored included sexual experiences and relationships, self-image, perceptions of gender differences, past and present sexual and emotional experiences, and current quality of life. Older women's accounts of opportunities for sex and pleasure demonstrated the influence of past experiences. They reported a decline in their enjoyment of sexual contact over time. Renouncing sexual intercourse was most often attributed to husband's poor health or lack of interest. New and fulfilling relationships, however, facilitated a revival in erotic interest. Although cultural differences were identified, individual experiences across the life span appeared to be of paramount importance in understanding older women's sexual health. Past experiences seemed to influence present attitudes and expectations about sexuality, pleasure, and love.