A National Survey on Intimate Relationships, Sexual Activity, and Sexual Satisfaction Among Adults with Physical and Mental Disabilities

Abstract

This study provides an overview and a better understanding of how physical and mental disabilities are associated with intimate relationships, sexual activity, and sexual satisfaction. Data were drawn from a national survey study with 15,073 participants in Denmark aged between 26 and 65 of whom 4102 reported a physical disability and 1174 a mental disability. Participants with a disability (physical, mental, or both) reported significantly lower levels of sexual activity and satisfaction than participants without a disability. Participants with a mental disability or both a mental and physical disability reported the lowest levels of sexual activity and satisfaction. Further analysis showed that having a partner, being female, and of a younger age were associated with higher levels of sexual activity and satisfaction among participants with a disability (physical, mental, or both).