[A pilot project on the sexual experiences of the aged in a home for the aged].

Abstract

The pilot-study 'The aged in old people's homes and their sexuality' indicates, that very old people still have all kinds of sexual feelings and want to express these feelings. Living in a home for the aged has an inhibiting effect upon people's feelings, but also the attitude of the fellow-residents, staff and relations exerts pressure on the old people's sexuality. In the opinion of the investigator, there are three work areas, in which improvement of the present situation is possible: 1. training, education and influencing of all the people, who, in their sphere of activity, are in contact with the aged; 2. to change, by means of information, the mentality with regard to the acceptance of old people's sexuality; 3. everyone who is engaged in care for the aged in institutions should be attentive to developments in society. According to the author, a more extensive investigation would be very desirable.