Sexuality and the Elderly

This literature review was undertaken in order to determine what caregivers needed to know about elderly sexuality, to determine the needs of elderly people related to their sexuality, and to determine how caregivers could best assist them in meeting those needs. In selecting materials to be annotated for this book, the first priority was given to empirical studies. Also included were articles by prominent practitioners and researchers interested in elderly sexuality, literature reviews, and books written for the lay population which are often cited in the professional literature. In addition to seeking knowledge about elderly sexuality and understanding attitudes about sexuality, this literature review sought information about measurement issues and measurement instruments frequently used in research within elderly populations. Also of interest were investigations of educational and training programs involving caregivers.