Geriatric Women Sexuality Challenges Affecting Libido: A Case Study

                  http://austinpublishinggroup.com/gerontology/fulltext/ggr-v3-id1027.php

Hispanic geriatric woman sexuality and libido are affected by hormonal imbalances; for example, low estrogen level causes physiological concerns such as, vaginal atrophy and vaginal dryness, among other symptoms. Also, comorbidities, such as diabetes, vascular diseases, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia are common diseases in the Hispanic menopausal woman. Another important aspect affecting libido is the psychological issue the Hispanic geriatric women population suffers, including depression, anxiety, or partner’s pressure for intercourse. In addition to physiological and psychological issues, medications’ side effects can also decrease the woman’s libido. Healthy lifestyles as well as controversial treatments have been shown to improve geriatric women sexual dysfunction and decreased libido.

Commonly, in all races the number of ageing woman is increasing. This is directly associated with life expectancy due to innovative treatments and the modern lifestyle. Ageing women usually out number older men; however, their sexuality and libido at menopause is still a taboo in the 21^st century society. According to Bauer et al., it is clear that sexuality is an important component of quality of life for many older people and can be just as fulfilling as it is for younger people. Geriatric women sexual dysfunction is a symptom that a majority of geriatric women 65 years old or older complains about it in the outpatient setting. According to Abernethy et al., the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in postmenopausal women is even higher, with rates between 68% and 86.5%. Some women express their menopausal symptoms as vaginal dryness, low or not sexual desire, depression, anger, and/or anxiety due to partner pressure for intercourse.

This case study is based in a geriatric Hispanic woman suffering menopausal symptoms. It would cover physical factors such as, vaginal dryness and psychological factors corresponding to depression affecting women geriatric population. According to Watters et al., being able to remain sexually active often indicates greater self-worth, prevents social disengagement and avoids depression. Vaginal dryness and depression cause geriatric women sexual dysfunction. In addition to the mentioned causes, there are many other factors that can affect the changes in sexual desires in this population. For instance, socio-cultural factors, stress, traumas, and medications adverse effects are some reasons of women decrease libido. Attitudes toward sex are a cause of social and sexual experiences.