MEANINGS OF SEXUALITY AMONG ELDERLY WOMEN: GENDER RELATIONS, MECHANISTIC IDEOLOGIES AND SUBVERSION

Abstract

This article aims to understand the meanings of sexuality built by elderly women. We performed field research with a qualitative approach of descriptive-exploratory character. The data, collected through a semi-structured interview, were analyzed from the proposed nuclei of meaning for assimilation of the senses. As a result, the following nuclei emerged: sexual intercourse: sex as obligation, we're already tired of it, we want quietness now!; I don't have that urge anymore: it's because of the disease; and I'm eager to have sex: I still like. It was concluded that the senses of sexuality of the elderly women who participated in the study could be divided into two groups: women who "have no longer a desire to have sex" and those who still want to do it.

Keywords:
senses; sexuality; gender; woman, elderly