Knowledge, Attitudes, and Educational Needs for Sexuality of the Elderly

Han, Hye Ja; Kim, Nam Cho; Chi, Sung Ai

Abstract

PUPPOSE: This study was to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, and educational needs for sexuality of the elderly. METHOD: This was a descriptive study, in which data were collected from February to April 2002 from 354 elderly who were residing in Chung-Chung province. RESULT: 1. The level of knowledge regarding sexuality was below average. 2. The level of the attitudes toward sexuality of the elderly was neither positive nor negative. 3. The educational needs of the elderly were above average. 4. Higher level of knowledge on sexuality was significantly correlated with more positive attitudes and education needs for sexuality, and more positive attitudes toward sexuality was significantly correlated with more educational needs for sexuality.
CONCLUSION
Particularly men, with good health, and those who were in intimate relationships with their spouses and still engaged with active sexual life showed somewhat higher level of knowledge and positive attitudes as well as higher educational needs. Therefore, further development and applying of sexuality promotion programs for healthy elder couples should be considered in the future to enhance the quality of life of elder population. In addition, it is also suggested to develop an alternative intervention program on sexuality for elderly who are women, those with meager health, and the bereaved.