Questions and Answers
Why might an older person be hesitant to discuss their physical changes with their partner or doctor?
What may contribute to a lack of physical intimacy in older people?
What is a common result of a discrepancy in expectations between partners?
What is a common change in older couples' relationships?
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What is a possible reason why sexual intercourse may become less frequent or stop in older couples?
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What is the basis of intimacy between two people?
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Which of the following is a common age-related barrier to intimacy?
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Which disorders can cause erectile dysfunction?
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How can caregiving affect intimacy?
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What can certain medications cause in older people?
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What is a common age-related change that affects intimacy?
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What is a result of vaginal atrophy?
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What does not change with age in terms of intimacy?
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Study Notes
Intimacy and Aging
- 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.
Barriers to 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.
Changes in Intimacy
- 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.
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Description
Explore the importance of intimacy in older adults, including physical and emotional connections, and the barriers that can affect intimacy with age.