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Coping with Chronic Illness and Disability

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Sexuality and Aging

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Abstract

More than 85% of older adults suffer from at least one chronic illness, and approximately 50% must cope with at least two chronic illnesses. Unfortunately, most health care providers fail to discuss the impact of those illnesses upon sexual functioning. A variety of ailments, such as arthritis, chronic pain, stroke, high blood pressure, Parkinson’s disease, and dementia can impinge upon an older adult’s sexual functioning directly. Sometimes treatment for the disorder can prove as detrimental to sexual functioning as the disorder itself. For example, medications commonly prescribed to treat diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis, depression, and schizophrenia can significantly alter the sexual response cycle and even cause ED. In other instances such as with incontinence or recovery after a heart attack, embarrassment and fear may prevent clients from expressing their sexuality. The experience of sexual trauma or disfiguring surgeries certainly has the potential to impact negatively on older adults’ sex lives. Clear recommendations are offered to help clients suffering from chronic illnesses to regain sexual function and enjoyment (e.g., clients suffering from arthritis can consider alternative positions such as lying side- by- side, and electric blankets and heating pads can help soothe muscles and minimize pain), and detailed information about the potential side -effects of various prescription medications is offered. In sum, open communication and psychoeducation about sexual functioning for middle-aged and older clients with chronic illness represent a key to more successful coping.

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  1. Psychology Department, Pennsylvania State University Berks College, Reading, PA, USA

    Jennifer Hillman

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Hillman, J. (2012). Coping with Chronic Illness and Disability. In: Sexuality and Aging. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-3399-6_5

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