An Introduction including Media, Boomer, and Cross-cultural Perspectives

Abstract

With the aging of the U.S. baby boomers and our society’s general tolerance for more open discussions of sexuality, a substantial need for clinical expertise in sexuality and aging has become readily apparent. This text is intended to provide up-to-date information and practical advice regarding clinical issues in sexuality and aging, featuring cutting edge research and detailed case examples. Featured topics include the following: prevalence rates for participation in various sexual behaviors including masturbation, intercourse, as well as rates of sexual dysfunction and satisfaction; the side- effects of various prescription and OTC medications on sexual functioning, women’s issues such as menopause, vaginal dryness, dyspareunia, breast and gynecological cancers, sexual trauma, and body image; men’s issues such as ED and treatment, prostate cancer, and body image; increasing rates of HIV/AIDS and other STDs; changes in dating, cohabitation, and marriage including the impact of the Internet and social media; societal stereotypes and stigma; implicit and explicit attitudes toward sexuality and aging, and couple’s and sex therapy. Topics typically ignored within the context of sexuality and aging also are featured including minority and LGBT issues, cross-cultural perspectives, sexuality within the context of chronic illness (e.g., heart disease; diabetes) and disability (e.g., Alzheimer’s disease), sexuality in nursing homes and assisted -living facilities including the capacity for sexual consent, and sexuality at the end of life in palliative care and hospice. This introductory chapter provides an overview of the text as well as detailed information on the demographics of the middle-aged and older adult population, including baby boomer, cross-cultural, and research perspectives.