PSYC 333 Lecture 9: Week9Notes
15 Mar 2017
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Frequency of sexual activity decreases in older populations. Nhsls study: oldest age group most likely to report no sexual activity in past year. Lindau et al: 3000 adults (57-85 years, fewer 75-85 years olds report sexual activity in past year. Proportion of elderly people is quite large so it"s important to understand these people and help them to enjoy this part of their life. Even though there is a decrease in sexual activity, enjoyment and satisfaction remains the same as when they were younger. Reduction in estrogen has direct effect on body: reduced vaginal lubrication, decrease in vaginal acidity, and thinning of vaginal walls: hot flashes, night sweat, osteoporosis, sleep problems etc. People in menopause tend to report low sex drive. Penile changes: requires more time to become erect and then is less hard, easier to lose erection, longer refractory period. Semen changes: reduce volume and viscosity of seminal fluid. Medical conditions and medications affect sexual functioning.
