Abstract

BAIAO, Patrícia; HUMBOLDT, Sofia von  and  LEAL, Isabel. Sexual expression of the elderly dyad in dementia. Psic., Saúde & Doenças [online]. 2024, vol.25, n.1, pp.35-44.  Epub Mar 31, 2024. ISSN 1645-0086.  https://doi.org/10.15309/24psd250105.

The diagnosis of dementia in one of the spouses in the dyad has implications for the way elderly people express themselves sexually. Previous studies focus on sexual activity, neglecting the broad spectrum of sexuality. This study aims to identify the concept of sexual expression and understand how the elderly dyad expresses their sexuality, after the diagnosis of dementia. The non-probabilistic, convenience and snowball sample consists of ten elderly people, spouses of a partner with dementia living in the community. Qualitative data were collected through a sociodemographic questionnaire and semi-structured interviews, subsequently subjected to content analysis. For the concept of sexual expression, 8 categories were identified: Affection; Sexual relations; Loving expression; Communication; Support and care; Well-being; Companionship and Attitudes. Regarding forms of sexual expression, 6 categories were obtained: Manifestations of affection and care; Decreased sexual interest; Sexual desire; Existence of sexual relations; Emergence of other interests and Impact of menopause on sexual expression. This study offers a diverse representation of sexual expression, emphasizes the importance of affection and care for older adults to remain sexually active, and contributes to the development of programs and interventions to promote sexual health and well-being.

Keywords : Sexual expression; Dyad; Diagnosis; Dementia; Older adults.

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