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Talking to healthcare providers about sex in later life: Findings from a qualitative study with older Australian men and women
Author(s) -
Fileborn Bianca,
Lyons Anthony,
Heywood Wendy,
Hinchliff Sharron,
Malta Sue,
Dow Briony,
Brown Graham,
Barrett Catherine,
Minichiello Victor
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
australasian journal on ageing
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.63
H-Index - 34
eISSN - 1741-6612
pISSN - 1440-6381
DOI - 10.1111/ajag.12450
Subject(s) - thematic analysis , health care , perception , older people , qualitative research , psychology , gerontology , medicine , sociology , economic growth , social science , neuroscience , economics
Objective Healthcare providers ( HCP s) can play an important role in supporting the sexual health of older adults; however, we know little about the experiences of older people in talking to HCP s about sex. This article examines older adults' experiences and perceptions of talking to HCP s about sex. Methods Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 30 men and 23 women aged 60 and older recruited from a national, online survey of older Australians. Data were analysed using a thematic approach. Results Most participants did not discuss sex with their HCP , and their HCP did not raise it. For those who did discuss sex with a HCP , negative and stigmatising responses were common. Positive responses could facilitate access to sexual health care. Conclusion Older people benefit when HCP s are proactive and ask about sexual health. Education in how to talk about sex with older people would also be beneficial for HCP s.