Older Adults' Behaviors and Preferences for Seeking Sexual Health Information

Sexual expression is important to many older adults, but this population may be overlooked by sexual health campaigns and services. This study sought to understand the sexual health information-seeking behaviors and preferences of older adults, including whether and where they seek this information, the characteristics associated with seeking it, as well as satisfaction, preferences, and reasons for not seeking it.

The data were gathered in 2021 via a cross-sectional online survey of Australians aged 60 and over. There were seven quantitative outcomes and one set of free-text comments. Quantitative outcomes were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi² test, and logistic regression. The free-text comments were analyzed using qualitative content analysis.

The survey sample was comprised of 1,470 respondents with an equal balance of men (49.9%) and women (49.7%) and a median age of 69 years (range of 60-92 years). Findings showed that 41.2% (602/1,461; 95%CI 38.7-43.7) had sought information, and 63.6% were satisfied with the information found. Being male, STI testing, online dating, age 70-79, and urban-living were associated with information-seeking. Healthcare providers were the most utilized and trusted information source, and many respondents were willing to look online. One in five did not seek information when they needed it, outlining various barriers preventing them from doing so.

Many older adults seek sexual health information, and with some experiencing access barriers and one-third unsatisfied, there is room for improvement. Relevant, accessible information should be provided by healthcare professionals and credible websites.