Older’s women sexuality. Developmental and psychosocial perspective

Abstract

The aim of our research is to unveil the practice and experience of sexuality in three groups of women between age 50 and 80. Both qualitative and quantitative data have been collected through focus groups and a questionnaire drawn up by our research team. Our sample group was composed of 729 women. The data collected reveal a qualitative difference in the reality of sex over the age of 70. The fact of having a partner or not, as well as the willingness to establish sexual affective relationships, determine the likelihood for enjoying a satisfactory sexual life after menopause. Heterosexual women are more unsatisfied in older age than those of lesbian orientation. Autoeroticism is the most established sexual practice in women of all ages.