Knowledge, attitude and practice of elders about sexuality

Abstract

Background: Sexuality has been considered as one of the most natural and main aspects of life that affect an individual's identity as a human being. Not only the sexual activity provides happiness for older adults, it may also maintain a sense of self-esteem. Until recently, little attention was paid to sexuality of elderly people in many countries. Aim of the study was to identify knowledge, attitude and practice of elders about sexuality.

Methods: Descriptive design: This study was administered in three elderly clubs in Mansoura city, Dakahlia Governorate. Subjects: 158 elderly people attending those clubs were included in the study. Data were collected through using four tools; Socio-demographic data and factor affecting sexual relationship, Knowledge about sexuality, Attitude and practice of elderly about sexuality.

Results: The majority of the target subjects were females; more than half had moderate knowledge about sexuality and very few sexual relationships, most of the subjects reported that sexuality is unnecessary for them and that the most common risk factor influencing sexuality is the psychological condition.

Conclusions: It was concluded that a negative correlation occurred between knowledge and attitude and the majority of target subjects had a neutral attitude. Therefore, it is recommended to implement a health education program about sexuality. This will help to improve knowledge, attitude and practice concerning sexuality.