Love in nursing homes

What new forms sexuality takes in old age

Many people are still sexually active in old age.(Bild: Haus der Barmherzigkeit )

Love knows no boundaries - not even age limits. Even in old age, people have a need for closeness and tenderness. However, problems often arise in care homes, such as unwanted assaults on care staff or fellow residents. The "Haus der Barmherzigkeit" has addressed this problem.

Sexuality is a basic need, and many people remain sexually active into old age. A decrease in sexual responsiveness and interest is only noticeable from the age of 75. According to the well-known gerontologist Gerald Gatterer, most people have regular sexual intercourse until their mid to late 60s. For people living in a relationship, the proportion of sexuality only decreases significantly between 60 and 80.

Sexuality takes on new forms in old age
In men, however, erection problems increase steadily from the age of 50. As a result, many people in old age are more interested in tenderness and closeness and less in pure sexual intercourse as practised in their younger years. "A couple for whom sexuality - in whatever form - has always played a major role will remain sexually lively in old age, even if the approach changes," says expert Gerti Senger.