Sexual function in the geriatric patient

While sexual activity may decline with age and sexual dysfunction tends to increase, a recent study in Australia found that more than 55% of women over the age of 70 are still interested in sexual activity. These findings highlight the importance of sexuality in older patients and clinicians being aware of issues influencing both normal and impaired sexual functioning in their older patients. In this article, the authors discuss the neurobiology and evaluation of sexual function, the effects of aging on sexual function, sexual dysfunction and the common organic etiologies of sexual dysfunction, specific medical disorders that may impair sexual functioning, treatment issues of sexual dysfunctions, and specific medications that may foster sexual function.