Intimacy and Aging

Questions and Answers

They have a discrepancy in expectations with their partner

They have lost interest in physical intimacy

They are embarrassed about changes in their body (correct)

They are experiencing a shift to other forms of intimacy

Living with family members or in a residential care facility (correct)

A shift to other forms of intimacy

A loss of passion for their partner

A discrepancy in expectations with their partner

A decrease in verbal expressions of affection

A shift to other forms of intimacy

A lack of physical intimacy (correct)

A reluctance to discuss physical changes

A shift to other forms of intimacy Signup and view all the answers

A shift to other forms of intimacy Signup and view all the answers

Knowledge of and familiarity with the other person Signup and view all the answers

Loss of a partner Signup and view all the answers

Vascular disorders and diabetes Signup and view all the answers

It decreases intimacy due to stress and demands Signup and view all the answers

Erectile dysfunction Signup and view all the answers

Decreased levels of sex hormones Signup and view all the answers

Reduced vaginal lubrication Signup and view all the answers

Desire for intimacy Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Intimacy is a feeling of closeness shared between two people, based on knowledge, familiarity, and emotional, social, and physical connections.
Physical intimacy includes touching, cuddling, and sexual intercourse, and is not inappropriate at any age.
The desire for intimacy does not decrease with age, but age-related disorders and emotional changes can interfere with maintaining intimacy.

Loss of a partner is the most common age-related barrier to intimacy.
Various disorders, such as vascular disorders, diabetes, and arthritis, can cause physical limitations and discomfort, making intimacy difficult.
Cognitive impairment and dementia can complicate issues of consent and comfort with intimacy.
Medications can cause problems affecting intimacy, such as erectile dysfunction or a reduced sex drive.
Age-related changes, such as decreased sex hormone levels, can cause physical discomfort and difficulties.

Older people may be reluctant to discuss changes in their body or intimacy with their partner or doctor.
A discrepancy in expectations between partners can lead to differences in desired physical expressions of intimacy.
Lack of privacy, such as living with family members or in a residential care facility, can limit opportunities for physical intimacy.
Many couples may shift to other forms of intimacy, such as touching, massaging, or verbal expressions of affection, as they age.