SEXUALITY AND WELL-BEING AMONG COMMUNITY-DWELLING OLDER ADULTS IN BOGOTÁ, COLOMBIA

Sep 29, 2026

Upload by Oliver

Sexuality in late life is often overlooked, yet it shapes well-being and mental health among older adults. A mixed-methods study in Bogotá, Colombia examined how sexuality relates to psychosocial factors. In the quantitative phase, 615 community-dwelling adults (Mage=66) completed surveys assessing sexual well-being, depression, resilience, life satisfaction, and social support. Interviews with 19 participants explored experiences of sexuality, intimacy, and healthcare interactions. Regression indicated sexual satisfaction was predicted by age and awareness of the right to a fulfilling sexual life, while qualitative results emphasized stigma, limited provider engagement, and the role of social support.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryResearch & Report

FormatPDF

Pages2

Reading Time5 min

AccessFree to download

Abstract

Study design and participants

Measures and qualitative interviews

Results and key predictors

Discussion and implications

818 Innovation in Aging, 2025, Vol. 9, No. S2 Abstract citation ID: igaf122.2775 SEXUALITY AND WELL-BEING AMONG COMMUNITY-DWELLING OLDER ADULTS IN BOGOTÁ, COLOMBIA Maria Reyes, Natalie Levy, Maria-Jose Castro, Gabriela Morales, Gabriela Garcia, Maria Ordoñez, and Angie Riveros, Universidad de los Andes, Bogota, Distrito Capital de Bogota, Colombia Sexuality in late life is often overlooked, yet it plays a significant role in the well-being and mental health of older adults. We conducted a mixed methods study to explore the relationship between sexuality, well-being, and psychosocial factors among older adults in Bogotá, Colombia. The quantitative phase included 615 older adults (Mage= 66), 57.3% women, 40.9% men, and 1.4% transwomen. Surveys measured sexual well-being, depression, resilience, life satisfaction, and social support. The qualitative phase involved interviews with 19 participants (7 women, 6 men, and 6 transwomen), exploring experiences of sexuality, intimacy, and interactions with healthcare providers. Results: multiple linear regression analysis showed that overall sexual satisfaction was predicted by age and awareness of the right to a fulfilling sexual life. Significant correlations were found between higher satisfaction with social support and perceived sexual compatibility and overall sexual satisfaction. Low social support was associated with higher distress in sexual functioning. Qualitative findings highlighted stigma surrounding aging and sexuality, particularly among transgender individuals. Participants highlighted the continued relevance of sexuality, especially for those in active relationships. While some saw no changes with aging, most reported significant shifts. Participants revealed that professionals rarely addressed sexuality. Discussion: social support, awareness of sexual rights, and resilience were Innovation in Aging, 2025, Vol. 9, No. S2 819 positively associated with higher sexual satisfaction. Participants recognized changes in their sexuality as they aged. Cultural and religious beliefs played a crucial role in discussing sexuality, as many participants initially felt barriers to speaking openly. However, they acknowledged that sexuality is an important yet hidden topic.

FAQs

What was the main aim of the study in Bogotá, Colombia?

To examine the relationship between sexuality, well-being, and psychosocial factors among community-dwelling older adults.

What predicted overall sexual satisfaction in the quantitative results?

Age and awareness of the right to a fulfilling sexual life predicted overall sexual satisfaction.

How did stigma and social support relate to sexual functioning and experiences?

Lower social support was linked to higher distress in sexual functioning, and qualitative findings highlighted stigma surrounding aging and sexuality, especially for transgender individuals.

Sep 29, 2026

Upload by Oliver