Sexuality in Residential Aged Care: The Resident´s Perspective

This study investigates how older adults in Residential Aged Care (RAC) perceive and navigate their sexuality. Employing a qualitative approach with semi-structured interviews, it examines older adults' perceptions of sexuality while living in RAC, the barriers they encounter, and the ways they maintain or adapt their sexuality. Data were collected from 15 participants in Swedish RAC facilities. Nine identified as women and six as men, with a mean age of 87.3. The analysis identified three principal themes: The Sexual Script for Older Adults, Co-creating the Script, and Navigating the Script. These themes highlight how older adults articulate their sexuality, respond to institutional norms, and sometimes resist expectations. The findings suggest that sexuality remains a substantial aspect of life for many older adults, even when they face age-related stigma or institutional limitations. This study underscores the need for RAC to better support the sexuality of older adults and advocates for policies that recognize and facilitate their sexual autonomy and well-being.