Browsing by Autor "Natalie Levy"

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Sexuality and Aging: Knowledge and Attitudes of Healthcare Practitioners in Colombia
(University of Oxford, 2025) Maria Reyes; Natalie Levy
Abstract In Colombia, older adults face limited access to comprehensive care that included sexual health. Despite the importance of sexuality in older adults’ quality of life, healthcare professionals often overlook it in their assessments, reinforcing barriers in care. This study aims to identify the level of knowledge and attitudes of healthcare practitioners towards sexuality and aging. A cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted. The sample consisted of 150 healthcare practitioners in Colombia. The questionnaire included demographic data, education and experience, and the Aging Sexual Knowledge and Attitudes Scale, and the Staff Attitudes about Intimacy and Dementia scale. Results professionals reported that they occasionally or rarely address sexuality-related topics with older adults in their practice. Additionally, participants indicated that they had not received training on these topics but expressed interest in doing so. The results showed a moderately positive trend in attitudes toward sexuality in later life. The highest agreement levels were found in the importance of sexuality for quality of life, the need to address it in healthcare, and its recognition as a relevant dimension of well-being. Participants reported a lack of confidence in addressing the topic in professional practice and perceived cultural barriers to discussing it, particularly concerning older adults with dementia and those in institutional settings. Discussion The findings suggest that healthcare professionals generally have positive attitudes toward sexuality in old age but struggle to address it in their practice. This difficulty may be related to the lack of specific training on the topic, which limits their confidence and knowledge.
Sexuality and Well-Being Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults in Bogotá, Colombia
(University of Oxford, 2025) Maria Fernanda F. Reyes; Natalie Levy; M Castro; Gabriela Morales; Gabriela Garcia; Maria Ordoñez; Angie Riveros
Abstract 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 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.
Sexuality and Well-Being Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults in Bogotá, Colombia
(University of Oxford, 2025) Maria Fernanda F. Reyes; Natalie Levy; M Castro; Gabriela Morales; Gabriela Garcia; Maria Ordoñez; Angie Riveros
Abstract 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 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.