Sexual Health and Sexual Expression in Women Transitioning to Long Term Residential Settings: Challenges and Individual Rights

Abstract

Sexual health and sexual expression can be controversial topics at any age. Ageism in Western society makes this discussion, as it pertains to the elderly, even more taboo because sexual health is not usually a focus for healthcare providers serving the geriatric population (Bauer et al., 2015). However, sexual rights are human rights fully acknowledged by the World Health Organization, through its Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health (2021). The ability to fully express one’s sexuality is part of the human experience across the lifespan and any barrier to this expression will have an impact in one’s quality of life.
 Considering this, how do elderly women transitioning to long-term residential facilities (assisted living or nursing homes) rate their sexual health and their opportunities to express their sexuality? This presentation will describe the current state of affairs in these facilities as it pertains to services and supports related to sexual health, how residents rate the current sexual health related services and support, and current barriers to services that are more person-centered, dignified, and respectful of older people’s sexual expression, with specific emphasis on the LGBTQIA+ aging population.