RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Relationships Between Sexuality and Mental Health in Older People

This research explores the connection between sexual activity and mental health in people aged 60 and over. While it's common for sexual activity to decrease with age, this isn't just due to physical changes. Social and cultural factors, like outdated ideas about older people and losing a partner, also play a big role. Maintaining a healthy sex life can positively impact both mental and physical health, potentially improving overall quality of life and even lowering risks for some diseases. However, not much is known about how sexuality specifically links to mental health in older adults. This study aims to fill that gap by using questionnaires to understand these relationships better, helping us learn more about supporting the well-being of older people.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

University Hospital, Clermont-Ferrand

Enrolment target

200

Start

01 Oct 2025

Estimated completion

01 Sep 2026

Old Age

What is this study about?

This study is looking into an important topic: how your sexual well-being can affect your mental health as you get older. While you might think sexual activity naturally declines with age, it's not always just about your body changing. Society's views about older people and dealing with the loss of a partner can also play a big part.

Having a fulfilling sex life, even as you age, can be really good for you. It's often linked to feeling better mentally and physically, improving your overall quality of life. Some studies even suggest it might lower the risk of certain health problems. However, we don't fully understand the specific links between sexuality and mental well-being in older adults, and this area of health needs more attention.

That's why this research is being done. The main aim is to discover how sexuality and mental health are connected in people over 60 who live in their own homes. We also want to explore how different aspects of life, like being part of social groups or living independently, might influence these links. The goal is to learn more so we can better support the health and happiness of older people.

Key takeaways

This study explores how sexuality affects mental health in people over 60.
It aims to understand broad connections, not just physical health.
Participation involves filling out confidential questionnaires.
There are no medicines or medical procedures involved.
Findings could help improve support for older adults' well-being.
You can withdraw at any time.

Who may be eligible?

To be able to take part in this study, you need to be at least 60 years old. Both men and women are welcome to participate, and it's important that you volunteer to join; you won't be pressured into it.

There are a few reasons why someone might not be able to join. For example, if you struggle to understand or speak French, this study might not be suitable for you. Also, if you have any major memory or thinking problems that make it hard to understand or answer questions, you wouldn't be able to participate. Finally, if you simply don't wish to take part, that's perfectly fine, and you won't be included.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 60 years old or older?
Can you understand and communicate in English (or the language of the study)?
Are you happy to take part voluntarily?
Do you feel you can understand questions and express your thoughts clearly?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, your involvement would be quite straightforward. You would be asked to fill out some questionnaires. These questionnaires are designed to gather information about your quality of life, your sexual well-being, and aspects of your mental health. There are no medications involved in this study, nor any medical procedures. You won't need to visit a clinic multiple times; everything is based on completing these questionnaires. There are no follow-up visits after you've completed them. The total time commitment for you would just be the time it takes to honestly and thoughtfully complete the questionnaires.

Potential risks and benefits

While there aren't direct medical benefits from taking part, contributing to this study could help us better understand and support the well-being of older adults in the future. The risks are very low; you might find some questions personal, but you never have to answer anything you don't want to. Your information will be kept private and confidential. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your care or your relationship with your doctor.

Locations (1)

CHU Gabriel Montpied
Verified postcode
Clermont-Ferrand, France· Recruiting

Common questions

What exactly will I have to do?

You will be asked to complete some questionnaires about your quality of life, sexual experiences, and mental health.

Will anyone know my answers?

No, your answers will be kept completely private and confidential. Your name won't be linked to your responses.

Do I need to be currently sexually active?

The study aims to understand various aspects of sexuality and mental health; you don't need to be currently active to participate.

How long will it take?

The time commitment will only be for completing the questionnaires, which is likely a single session.

Can I change my mind after joining?

Yes, you are free to withdraw from the study at any point without needing a reason.

How to find out more

Lise Laclautre

promo_interne_drci@chu-clermontferrand.fr +33473754963 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.