A traditional view is that sex is for the young and beautiful. This is about to change radically. The group of older adults will increase the coming years, and sex will have a very different position in the life of future generations pensioners. Sex is an important component of life. Therefore, sexual function is an important prerequisite for the experience of quality of life. Current and future generations of older adults will emphasize sexual health more than previous generations. Health authorities across Europe realize that an increasing number of older adults will regard their sexual health and sexual satisfaction as important in life, even as a human right.
However, we lack research on how older adults cope with the physical, psychological and relationship changes that may affect sexual health. On this background, a research project is implemented in six European countries, and this project will eventually provide new and valuable knowledge about sexuality in older adults. This knowledge will make policy makers and healthcare professionals better equipped to face the challenges related to sexual well-being in older adults - both as individuals and as couples. Different European countries have different sexual cultures and the rules that govern what people do, with whom, how and when are different. There are major differences in rules, norms, attitudes and behavior between people of the north, south and central Europe. Important reasons for this are social and
cultural differences with regard to gender roles and the position the gender equality ideology in the different societies and cultures. The research project will provide knowledge about older adults' challenges in relation to their sex lives. Data will be collected from various sources and in the different countries.
Preliminary data from Norway can tell us something about how sexually active the older adults are. In the recently conducted survey, we used a broad definition of sexuality, and asked a representative sample of 60-75 year old Norwegians if they had had some form of sexual activity last year. As much as 91% men and 74% women answered yes to the question. The gender difference is explained by the fact that more women than men in this age group live alone.
