There’s no age limit on sexual activity
With a rapidly ageing population, a widespread conversation about the largely unspoken issues associated with sex and ageing is long overdue.
The inaugural, international Let’s Talk About Sex, Relationships and Intimacy as We Age conference aims to push dialogue about sexual activity in later life firmly into the mainstream.
“The concept of an older couple in their 80s or 90s holding hands or kissing one another on the cheek is considered to be a beautiful thing. In contrast, the concept of the same elderly couple having sex tends to make people feel uncomfortable,” says Maree McCabe, Alzheimer's Australia Vic chief executive.
“Where do these attitudes come from and why don’t we talk about them?” she asks.
The inaugural, international Let’s Talk About Sex, Relationships and Intimacy as We Age conference aims to push this dialogue firmly into the mainstream.
Hosted by Alzheimer’s Australia Vic and COTA Victoria, this Melbourne based event will challenge the assumptions, taboos and stereotypes when it comes to older people and sexual intimacy.
Ms McCabe says the reality associated with an ageing population means that seizing the opportunity to discuss what it means to ‘age well’ has never been more important. The crucial role that sex and intimacy plays is often overlooked in this conversation.
“The risk of developing dementia increases with age. Therefore, the topic of sex and dementia and the unique challenges this presents will be a key area of focus throughout the conference,” she says.
In aged care planning, no provision is generally given for clients to be intimate with their partners and it is often regarded as inappropriate. The need for intimacy is a fundamental human desire with no age limit, yet the crucial role that sex plays is often overlooked.
“We also need to ensure people are safe from sexual abuse whether at home or in care, and we know this is a concern to many people and service providers alike,” she says.
According to Sue Hendy, COTA Victoria chief executive, the aim is to get as many people as possible talking about sex and ageing, on a global scale.
“Our society has a tendency to shy away from discussing the need and desire for intimacy amongst older people. The failure to acknowledge that we continue to be sexual beings as we age has left many deprived of their right to a satisfying and fulfilling sex life,” Ms Hendy says.
The comprehensive program for this two day event will provide a high level of education and arresting discussion on this important topic. Internationally acclaimed speakers from medical and allied health, education, government and aged care will address delegates.
Keynote speakers will include:
- Joan Price, a California based advocate for ageless sexuality, media-dubbed “senior sexpert,” and author of three books about senior sex.
- Dr Rosie King, a New South Wales based, internationally acclaimed sex therapist, educator, author and lecturer with over 30 years of clinical experience.
- Kaz Cooke, a well known Melbourne based author, cartoonist, radio broadcaster and public speaker. Kaz is one of Australia’s most trusted advisors for girls and women and is well versed in putting a light hearted spin on taboo subjects.
The conference program will broadly cover the topic of intimacy as we age, with dementia a key area of focus. Themes will include:
- The Right to Choose – Rights, Ethics, Legalities, Capacity to Decide
- Safety and Health – Physical, Emotional, Environmental, Illness and Disability, Abuse, Community
- Attitudes and Values – Diversity, Stigma, Taboo, Fetishes, Adventurism, Sex Workers
- Having the Conversation – Language, Family, Home, Place, Service Delivery
“We are so proud to be hosting this unique international event. It will set the benchmark as we strive to highlight the importance of sexual relationships as we age. With an eclectic array of local and international experts and real people telling their own personal stories, this event is one not to be missed,” Ms Hendy says.
The conference will take place on 8 and 9 September 2015 at Pullman Hotel, 192 Wellington Parade, Melbourne.
Alzheimer’s Australia Vic and COTA Victoria invite academics, health care professionals and policy makers, as well as older people and their carers to share their experiences and insights.
The closing date for abstracts is 22 April 2015. Early bird registrations close on 10 June 2015.
For more information, to register or to submit an abstract visit www.ltas2015.com, email ltas2015@arinex.com.au or call (03) 9417 0888.
