Desexualisation in Later Life: The Limits of Sex and Intimacy

Description

Despite evidence of a more sexually active 'third age', ageing and later life (50+) are still commonly represented as a process of desexualisation. Challenging this assumption and ageist stereotypes, this interdisciplinary volume investigates the experiential and theoretical landscapes of older people's sexual intimacies, practices and pleasures. Contributors explore the impact of desexualisation in various contexts and across different identities, orientations, relationships and practices. This enlightening text, reflecting international scholarship, considers how we can distinguish the real challenges faced by older people from the prejudices imposed on them.

Paul Simpson has lectured at several northwest universities, including the Department of Sociology at the University of Manchester, and is currently an independent academic. Paul Reynolds is Co-Convenor of the International Network for Sexual Ethics and Politics (INSEP) and Associate Lecturer with The Open University. Trish Hafford-Letchfield is Professor of Social Work at the University of Strathclyde.

"A brilliant contribution to an increasingly emergent interest in later life sexuality. Contributors dispel myths and stereotypes which have plagued both our awareness and understanding of the subject. This will be the seminal work for years to come." Mervyn Eastman, ChangeAGEnts Co-operative "This book provides a significant contribution to an area often overlooked in practice, policy and research. Contributors provide a timely and important reminder that sexuality is a core part of who we are, no matter our age." Adi Cooper OBE, University of Bedfordshire "This text approaches desexualisation in later life in robust yet highly sensitive ways, with the aim of destabilising hegemonies and progressing thought, policy and practice in productive ways." Maurice Nagington, University of Manchester