Sex and Diversity in Later Life: Critical Perspectives

This edited volume explores diversity in sexual and intimate experiences among older adults (50+), highlighting the intersection of age, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, and class. It offers critical insights and original research on normative, non-normative, and new normative forms of sexual identification and expression.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 264 pages
\n Publication date: 27 May 2021
\n Publisher: Bristol University Press
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Despite the growing recognition of sexual diversity, older individuals' accounts of sex and intimacy continue to be marginalized. This edited volume aims to address diversity in sexual and intimate experiences among individuals aged 50 and above, capturing international research and analysis related to intersectional identities. Contributors delve into the ways in which being older intersects with differences in ethnicity, gender, sexuality, and class. By offering a critical lens and unique contribution to an emerging, yet relatively overlooked field, this collection expands our understanding of intimacies, practices, and pleasures for those who defy traditional notions of sexual identification and expression.

Introduction:
The aging population is rapidly growing worldwide, and with it, there is a growing interest in understanding the diverse sexual and intimate experiences of older individuals. While there has been some progress in recognizing the importance of sexual health and well-being among older adults, there remains a significant gap in research and understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities that older people face in their sexual lives.

Diversity in Sexual and Intimate Experiences:
Older people experience a wide range of sexual and intimate experiences, just like younger individuals. However, their experiences are often shaped by a combination of factors, including societal norms, cultural expectations, health conditions, and personal preferences. For example, older women may face unique challenges related to menopause and declining sexual desire, while older men may experience changes in their sexual function and body image.

Intersectionality:
Intersectionality is a critical concept in understanding the diverse experiences of older people. It refers to the way in which multiple social identities, such as race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, class, and ability, intersect and influence an individual's experiences and opportunities. For example, an older Black woman may face compounded barriers to accessing healthcare and support services due to her race and gender, while an older LGBTQ+ individual may face discrimination and marginalization due to their sexual orientation and gender identity.

Contributors and Contributions:
This edited volume brings together a diverse group of scholars and researchers from around the world who specialize in the study of older people's sexual and intimate experiences. The contributors explore a range of topics, including the impact of ageism and discrimination on older people's sexual health and well-being, the role of technology and social media in shaping sexual relationships among older adults, and the experiences of older people with disabilities in their sexual lives.

Conclusion:
Despite the challenges and barriers that older people face in their sexual and intimate lives, there is a growing recognition of the importance of addressing these issues. This edited volume provides a valuable contribution to the field by highlighting the diversity of sexual and intimate experiences among older individuals and emphasizing the need for intersectional approaches to research and intervention. By expanding our understanding of older people's sexual lives, we can work towards creating more inclusive and supportive environments for all individuals as they age.

\n Weight: 556g\n
Dimension: 241 x 241 x 22 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781447355403\n \n