SOCIAL GERONTOLOGY TODAY

An Introduction

Chapter 9: Sexuality and Intimacy - Study Questions

1. Bring in advertisements and articles reflecting sexuality and intimacy among older people. Discuss what is and is not included.

2. How have norms regarding premarital and extramarital sex changed over the past 50 years for men? Are the changes the same for women? How would you expect these changes to affect the sexual practices of the now-old?

3. Select members of the class to take opposing sides and conduct a debate on the following issue: "Sexual relationships between consenting residents should be permitted in nursing homes."

4. Should mentally impaired elders in institutional facilities be permitted to have sexual relationships with a spouse or partner? Why or why not?

5. Make and write down a set of predictions about sexuality, love and intimacy in old age for three different birth cohorts: baby boomers, Generation Xers and your own birth cohort. Explain any differences you predict among the three cohorts.

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