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Israel Journal of Health Policy Research

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Open Access 01-12-2020 | Original research article

Sex for seniors: how physicians discuss older adult’s sexuality

Authors: Ateret Gewirtz-Meydan, Inbar Levkovich, Moshe Mock, Uri Gur, Khaled Karkabi, Liat Ayalon

Published in: Israel Journal of Health Policy Research | Issue 1/2020

Abstract

Background

This study examined physicians’ perspectives on sexuality in later life.

Methods

In-depth interviews were conducted among 38 physicians with various specialties and they were asked to discuss sexuality in later life within the medical context.

Results

Perceptions on older adult’s sexuality emerged from the interviews were organized into three themes: What, why and how. What, referred to physician’s definition to what role sexuality plays in later life and what is considered sex. Why, referred to the reasons why physicians assumed older adults experience sexual difficulties, and how these assumptions effect the diagnostic process. How, referred to how sexual difficulties were treated by physicians. Physicians employed a bio-medical approach when treating older, as compared to young adults with sexual dysfunction.

Conclusions

The findings highlight a potential for differential treatment of older adults, based on age, rather than on other objective reasons.

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Title: Sex for seniors: how physicians discuss older adult’s sexuality
Authors: Ateret Gewirtz-Meydan
Inbar Levkovich
Moshe Mock
Uri Gur
Khaled Karkabi
Liat Ayalon
Publication date: 01-12-2020
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: Israel Journal of Health Policy Research / Issue 1/2020
Electronic ISSN: 2045-4015
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13584-020-00366-5

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Sex for seniors: how physicians discuss older adult’s sexuality

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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