Abstract
Sexuality often represents a taboo topic in midlife and especially older age. However, a fulfilled sexuality represents a component of positive ageing and is important for development in all life domains (i.e. cognitive, emotional, social, physical, personality). In this chapter, I will discuss the characteristics of sexuality in midlife and older age, explore the meaning of a fulfilled sexuality among middle-aged and older individuals, and examine the factors that play a role to achieve it from a positive psychology viewpoint. In this context, I will consider concepts like fulfilled sexuality, sexual well-being, and sexual quality of life, how can these be measured as well as the factors that facilitate or hinder these in midlife and older age. Also, I will look at links between sexuality and personal growth in all life domains to illustrate how a healthy sexuality can contribute to development in midlife and older age. Finally, I will examine the potentials and pitfalls of online dating in older age and how positive psychology principles and developmental assets can be applied to promote a fulfilled sexuality among middle-aged and older adults. Health communication concerning sexuality in midlife and older age is also addressed.
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Crăciun, I.C. (2023). Sexuality and Development: Towards a Fulfilling Sexuality in Midlife and Older Age. In: Fostering Development in Midlife and Older Age. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-24449-0_12
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