A growing body of research is concerned with understanding what kind of ideas individuals hold about older people, old age and ageing in general and how that affects older people. Such views on ageing can be positive or negative and can vary between different aspects of life. However, Wurm and colleagues (2017) argue that when individuals contemplate the process of aging, whether in relation to themselves or older people in general, they tend to focus more on the aspects of decline and loss rather than on the potential gains and opportunities for personal growth (Heckhausen et al., 1989; Hummert, 2011). These losses may involve physical or psychological changes (such as the development of wrinkles, chronic diseases, or disabilities, and memory decline), changes in personality traits (such as increased rigidity), social losses (such as the death of a spouse or close friends), or behavioural tendencies (such as increased dependence on others). In contrast, gains and growth associated with aging can include increased freedom, patience, dignity, and a sense of maturity or wisdom (Heckhausen et al., 1989).

People have different ideas and expectations about individuals or groups. These so called stereotypes are formed in the course of life through our own experiences, learning by example and knowledge that is formally or informally imparted to us. Certain character traits, values, capabilities and the expected appearance are attributed on the basis of a group characteristic (Rossow, 2012). These kinds of conceptions can be useful in that they help us to navigate social interactions. For example, based on assumptions on their level of understanding, healthcare providers will adapt the complexity of a medical explanation depending on whether they are speaking to a young child, or an adult, or if the person has a medical or non-medical background. In this way, healthcare providers attempt to maximise understanding and deliver the information that is needed for the patient to deal with their situation. However, at times people can be misled by their assumptions – might underestimate the abilities and knowledge of a younger child or non-medical person and such communication might make them feel as if they are not taken seriously.

How views on ageing impact the work of health and social care professionals is the focus of Module 2.1 in Topic 2: Challenges and barriers of Health and Social Care Professionals to sexuality expression in older people.

A distinction is made between the ideas one has about older people as a group (age stereotypes) and those one has about oneself as an older person (self-perceptions of ageing; Rossow, 2012). Self-perceptions of ageing can differ significantly from societal expectations or age-stereotypes. Research has shown that older adults often have more positive self-perceptions of their own ageing compared to their views on others, focusing on their personal wisdom, life experiences, and personal growth (Levy, 2009; Wurm et al., 2017). This can be attributed to the ageing experience itself. Whilst for older people ageing, younger people Whilst for younger people do not actively experience Factors such as self-esteem, resilience, and social support play crucial roles in shaping self-perceptions of ageing (Hummert, 2011; Sarkisian et al., 2002). Older individuals may challenge societal stereotypes by maintaining a strong sense of identity, pursuing meaningful activities, and embracing a proactive approach to their well-being (Lamont et al., 2015; Rowe & Kahn, 2015).

However, not all individuals are immune to negative stereotypes. As highlighted societal views on ageing often portray older individuals in a negative light, emphasising decline, frailty, and dependence on others (Wurm et al., 2017). These stereotypes can be perpetuated through media representations, ageist attitudes, and cultural biases. Accepting and incorporating negative societal beliefs about ageing into one’s self-perception is referred to as internalised ageism. Older individuals may internalise the negative images and stereotypes, leading to a diminished sense of self-worth, decreased confidence, and a reluctance to engage in sexual expression (Levy, 2009).

There have been various findings on how views on ageing can have an effect on the person’s own ageing experiences (Wurm & Huxold, 2012). It has been shown that negative views on ageing, together with self-referential age discrimination or internalised ageism, are dysfunctional. For example, people no longer go to a doctor because of age-related expectations of ineffectiveness, or symptoms that are unjustifiably attributed to age, making proper diagnosis impossible (back pain, “senile depression”). Exaggerated positive images of old age, in turn, can lead to frustration and disappointment if, for example, one cannot live up to one’s own expectations or if physiological changes of old age cannot be accepted (changes in the skin or hair). People who have a differentiated self-referential image of age and who can allow a certain tolerance for individual variance in both directions seem to fare best.

Views on ageing also play a major role in sexuality in old age (Schroeter, 2012). Some people may experience a difference between their needs and desires that they continue to experience as they age and what they perceive is expected of them or what they had been expecting themselves. Negative portrayals in the media, such as the absence of older adults in intimate relationships or the focus on age-related physical and cognitive decline, can contribute to ageist beliefs and influence older individuals’ self-perception and confidence around their sexuality.

Promoting positive images of ageing can empower older individuals by challenging stereotypes and fostering a more inclusive and diverse representation of older people’s sexuality. Highlighting examples of older adults engaging in fulfilling relationships, embracing their sexuality, and challenging ageist beliefs can positively influence self-perception and behaviour.

Health and social care professionals can play a vital role in promoting positive self-perceptions and enhancing older individuals’ sexual well-being. Encouraging open dialogue, providing accurate information about ageing and sexuality, and addressing self-perception concerns can help older adults develop a positive self-image and a healthy approach to their sexuality.