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Talking to healthcare providers about sex in later life: Findings from a qualitative study with older Australian men and women

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Authors
Fileborn, B.
Lyons, A.
Heywood, W.
Hinchliff, S.
Malta, S.
Dow, B.
Brown, Graham
Barrett, C.
Minichiello, V.
Date
2017
Type
Journal Article

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Fileborn, B. and Lyons, A. and Heywood, W. and Hinchliff, S. and Malta, S. and Dow, B. and Brown, G. et al. 2017. Talking to healthcare providers about sex in later life: Findings from a qualitative study with older Australian men and women. Australasian Journal on Ageing. 36 (4): pp. E50-E56.
Source Title
Australasian Journal on Ageing
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School of Public Health
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Abstract

© 2017 AJA Inc. Objective: Healthcare providers (HCPs) 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 HCPs about sex. This article examines older adults' experiences and perceptions of talking to HCPs 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 HCPs are proactive and ask about sexual health. Education in how to talk about sex with older people would also be beneficial for HCPs.