Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 17, 2026

Validation of a Psychosocial Intervention on Body Image in Older People: An Experimental Design
Published on: May 31, 2021
Count me in: response to sexual orientation measures among older adults
Karen I Fredriksen-Goldsen1, Hyun-Jun Kim2
1School of Social Work, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA fredrikk@u.washington.edu.
Abstract:
Health disparities exist among sexual minority older adults. Yet, health and aging surveys rarely include sexual orientation measures and when they do, they often exclude older adults from being asked about sexual orientation. This is the first population-based study to assess item nonresponse to sexual orientation measures by age and change over time. We compare response rates and examine time trends in response patterns using adjusted logistic regressions. Among adults aged 65 and older, the nonresponse rate on sexual orientation is lower than income. While older adults show higher nonresponse rates on sexual orientation than younger adults, the nonresponse rates have significantly decreased over time. By 2010, only 1.23% of older adults responded don't know/not sure, with 1.55% refusing to answer sexual orientation questions. Decisions to not ask sexual orientation among older adults must be reconsidered, given documented health disparities and rapidly changing social trends in the understanding of diverse sexualities.
Related Concept Videos
Surveys
Stereotypes, Prejudice, and Discrimination
Longitudinal Research
Relationship Formation
Pharmacodynamics in Geriatric Patients: Effects of Age
Theory of Romantic Attachment in Adulthood

