Sofia von Humboldt

Scopus Publications

“Until COVID-19 Do Us Part”: A Qualitative Study on Perceived Sexual Intimacy and Mental Health in Heterosexual Older Couples During The Covid-19 Pandemic
Sofia von Humboldt, Gail Low, and Isabel Leal
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
AbstractThis study aims to explore the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on heterosexual older couples’ sexual intimacy and in relation to their mental health. A content analysis of the ideas and insights shared by 391 older persons (between 65 and 87 years of age) from three different countries was most instructive. The most frequent themes were less sexual satisfaction (68%) and less sexual desire (67%). In terms of mental health, the most frequent themes included less anxiety and distress (78%) and greater attention to negative emotional states (55%) Cultural differences emerged, with Brazilian and Portuguese participants more frequently reporting negative themes compared to British participants, who emphasized stronger emotional bonds. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to unfold, ongoing research and interventions should prioritize understanding and addressing the implications of reduced physical contact and heightened emotional stress on sexual intimacy.


Does time matter? The role of time perspective and ageism in mental health along the lifespan
Isabel Miguel, Sofia von Humboldt, and Isabel Leal
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Abstract Time perspective is a consistent personal viewpoint which evolves with age and may influence mental health across the lifespan. This study aims to: (1) compare time perspective, perceived ageism and mental health indicators, in three age cohorts across the lifespan; (2) examine the influence of time perspective on mental health indicators (depression, anxiety, and stress); and (3) assess whether ageism serves as a moderating factor between time perspective and mental health indicators. 1311 participants from three distinct age groups (18–39, 40–59, and 60+) participated in this cross-sectional study. The following instruments were used: (a) Future Time Perspective Scale (FTPS); (b) Perceived Ageism Questionnaire (PAQ); (c) Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scales (DASS-21); and (d) a sociodemographic, health and lifestyle questionnaire. MANOVAs and moderated regression analyses were performed on the data. Results indicated the highest levels of stress, anxiety and perceived ageism among younger and older participants. A decrease in FTP-Opportunity and an increase of FTP-Limitation, and the perception of increased positive ageism were found throughout the life cycle. FTP-Opportunity was found to negatively impact stress, anxiety, and depression, whereas FTP-Limitation showed a positive effect. Positive ageism also moderated the effects of FTP-Opportunity on anxiety and depression. This study unveils the intricate relationship between time perspective, mental health, and ageism, indicating that time perspective significantly influences mental health outcomes such as depression, anxiety, and stress. Addressing ageism emerges as a crucial component in enhancing mental health in individuals of all ages.


Sexual Well-Being in Old Age: Effectiveness of an Intervention Program to Promote Sexual Well-Being in Older Community-Dwelling Adults
Sofia von Humboldt, Gail Low, and Isabel Leal
MDPI AG
Objectives: While many people strive for a fulfilling sexual life as they age, the inevitable changes that come with aging can present significant challenges concerning their sexual well-being (SWB). This study aims to present a comparative analysis of the scores in the variables of sexual satisfaction, adjustment to aging (AtA), and satisfaction with life (SwL) before and after the implementation of an intervention program to promote SWB among older adults. Methods: A convenience sample of 117 older community-dwelling adults (M = 72.31; SD = 5.752) were included in this study, and an ex post facto longitudinal design was applied. A six-week intervention program aimed at improving older adults’ understanding and exchanging their experiences of SWB was performed. The following measures were utilized: (1) a sociodemographic, health and lifestyle questionnaire; (2) Adjustment to Aging Scale (AtAS); (3) Satisfaction with Life Scale (SwLS); (4) New Sexual Satisfaction Scale (NSSS-S); and (5) Mini-Mental Status Exam (MMSE). The specified assessment time points in this study were as follows: baseline and after intervention. A follow-up assessment was conducted 6 months and 12 months after the baseline measurement. Results: The results indicated an increase in the scores in sexual satisfaction, AtA, and SwL from before to after the intervention among the intervention group. Conclusions: The development of intervention programs in older communities is necessary to contribute to the enhancing older adults’ SWB and to explore the best practices for implementing tailored interventions within community settings.


Underneath the Sheets: a Cross-Cultural Cluster Analysis of Older Adults’ Patterns of Aging and Sexual Well-Being in Portugal and Mexico
Sofia von Humboldt, Neyda Ma. Mendoza Ruvalcaba, Gail Low, and Isabel Leal
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
AbstractThis study aims to assess the patterns of life satisfaction with life (SwL), sexual satisfaction, and adjustment to aging (AtA), of older adults in Mexico and Portugal. A sample of 658 older adults, aged 65 years-old and older, from Mexico and Portugal were recruited for this cross-cultural study. The following measures were applied: (a) Adjustment to Aging Scale (ATAS); (b) Satisfaction with Life Scale (SwLS); (c) New Sexual Satisfaction Scale (NSSS); (d) Mini-Mental State Exam; and (e) Sociodemographic, health and lifestyle questionnaire. Clusters were identified and characterized by using K-means cluster analysis, encompassing SwL, AtA, and sexual satisfaction. Sexual well-being differences among clusters were analyzed with One-way ANOVAs. Findings indicated three clusters, which explained 76.4% (R-sq = 0.764) of the total variance: Cluster #1: “Moderately adjusted older adults” (n = 355, 53.9%), Cluster #2: “Moderately fulfilled older adults” (n = 265, 40.3%), and Cluster 3: “Well adjusted and satisfied older adults” (n = 38, 5.8%). Participants in Cluster #1 were mostly Mexican, with moderate levels of AtA and reduced sexual satisfaction and SwL. Conversely, Cluster #2 predominantly consisted of Portuguese participants with moderate sexual satisfaction and SwL, and lower levels of AtA. Participants from Cluster #3 were mostly Portuguese with high levels of AtA, sexual satisfaction, and SwL. This innovative study explored the intricate relationship between sexual well-being, the ability to adjust to aging, and overall SwL, in two different cultural contexts. Findings contributed to the understanding of the relationship between these three variables and for developing tailored future interventions and service planning with older adults in different cultures.


What Really Matters in Old Age? A Study of Older Adults’ Perspectives on Challenging Old Age Representations
Sofia von Humboldt, Gail Low, and Isabel Leal
MDPI AG
Aim: Older age is not a homogenous or stereotypical experience. Age-stereotypical representations can often be disconnected from older people’s own experiences. Challenging the status quo is relevant for aging well. The aim of this study is to analyze older adults’ perspectives on stereotypical versus their own age representations. Method: This qualitative study included a sample of 433 older adults who were 65 to 74, 75 to 84, and 85+ years of age. Content analysis was carried out. Results: Findings from this study indicated that the great majority of the participants (88%) did not identify with stereotypical age representations. This was so among participants in the 65–74 age group in relation to Showing a sense of agency (81.1%); Feeling spiritual (73.4%); Having meaningful goals (72.2%); Holding a significant social network (70.9%); Staying tuned to the world (67.1%); and feeling physically attractive (59.8%). Participants who were 75–84 years of age clarified what physical health (81.0%) and surviving chronic illnesses (78.9%), autonomy (75.5%), being socially active (74.9%), and staying mentally active (70.1%) represent at that age. The +85 years age group drew attention to No pain or physical limitations (95.6%), Physical health (93.1%), Cognitive autonomy (87.1%), Staying tuned to society and the world (76.3%); and Mobility (72.2%). Conclusions: Participants’ favoring their own over stereotypical thinking about people their age represents inner resourcefulness and a penchant for aging well. Collaborative partnerships for sharing such wisdom around could enrich policy programs and interventions that favor inclusivity and fight ageism, fostering a more accurate perspective of what it means to be a certain ‘age’ versus simply being ‘old’.


Factors Associated with Older People’s Anxiety Symptom Positioning after COVID-19: Cross-Sectional Findings from a Canadian Sample
Gail Low, Anila Naz AliSher, Juceli Morero, Zhiwei Gao, Gloria Gutman, Alex Franca, and Sofia von Humboldt
MDPI AG
This study sheds light on the personal characteristics of older Canadians self-identifying as severely anxious and the coping strategies that they gravitated to mitigate their anxiety. Our studied sample consisted of 606 Canadians aged 60 and above who took part in an e-survey across all 10 of Canada’s provinces, launched in July 2022, when social distancing was lifted across the country. Participants completed a personal characteristics questionnaire, the Geriatric Anxiety Scale or GAS-10, and a checklist of everyday coping strategies for mitigating anxiety. A seemingly greater number of severely anxious Canadians were born female, self-identified as a cisgender woman, and were in their 60s and in poor to fair health. A univariate logistic regression analysis revealed that all such personal characteristics were associated with statistically significantly greater odds of experiencing severe anxiety. In our multivariate logistic regression analysis, no significant differences were observed between the sexes (AOR = 0.590, p = 0.404), and non-binary and cisgender men (AOR = 0.689, p = 0.441) and women (AOR = 0.657, p = 0.397). Nor were there statistically significant differences in the odds of experiencing severe anxiety for those living with versus without a life partner and chronic illnesses. Older Canadians experiencing severe anxiety were far more likely to normalize their fear and anxiety (AOR = 4.76, p < 0.001), challenge their worries (AOR = 5.21, p < 0.001), and to relax or meditate (AOR = 2.36, p = < 0.001). They were less inclined to decrease other sources of stress in their lives, to stay active, and to get enough sleep. We offer anticipatory guidance for mental health program planners and practitioners, and fruitful avenues of inquiry for researchers.


Back to Kindergarten? Paternalistic Care Behavior in Healthcare Contexts and Older Adults’ Mental Health
Sofia von Humboldt, Sara Silva, and Isabel Leal
MDPI AG
Objectives: Paternalistic care behavior in health contexts reduces involvement in the decision-making process and dissatisfaction in healthcare, which may negatively influence older adults’ mental health. This study comprised two main objectives: (1) to explore older adults’ experiences of paternalistic behavior in the context of health services and (2) analyze the influence of paternalistic behavior on older adults’ mental health. Methods: The sample involved 416 participants aged 65 to 81 (M = 70.1 ± 5.73) with three different nationalities (English, Brazilian ad Portuguese). All interviews went through content analysis. Results: For the first objective, content analysis identified seven themes: (1) perceived inattention to the uniqueness of each person (81%); (2) feeling a duality of supporting and suppressing independence (79%); (3) selective disclosure of information to keep the person’s spirit up (74%); (4) feeling neglected (66%); (5) feeling unable to make decisions (64%); (6) receiving opposition to the person’s requests (60%); and (7) routine actions being considered as the best action (57%). For the second objective, three main themes emerged: (1) feeling anxious and stressed (88%); (2) feeling frustration and despair (87%); and (3) feeling injustice and anger (72%). Conclusions: Healthcare paternalism negatively affects older adults’ mental health, emphasizing the need for their agency, involvement in decisions, and personalized care. These findings highlight the negative influence of paternalistic behavior on the mental health of older adults and may contribute to future targeted interventions and policy programs among the older population.


Neglect in Older Adults: A Sociodemographic and Health Approach in the Portuguese Context
Joana Correia Jesus, Sofia von Humboldt, Luisa Soares, and Isabel Leal
MDPI AG
Southern European countries have shown indicators of accelerated aging. In Portugal, a particularly worrying aspect of this reality lies in the relationship between the aging process and the incidence of violence in older adults, as the degree of dependence and/or health status becomes a significant risk factor for the occurrence of violence. The objectives of the present study were (1) to assess the risk of violence and indicators of neglect in Portuguese older adults; (2) to examine the differences in neglect indicators according to sociodemographic characteristics and health habits. The final sample consisted of 1012 Portuguese older adults aged 65 or over. Participants were asked about sociodemographic characteristics and health habits. The risk of violence was measured using the Vulnerability to Abuse Screening Scale, and the neglect subscale of the Elder Abuse: A Multinational Prevalence Survey was used to evaluate indicators of exposure to neglect in the past year. The results show that approximately 27% of the population presents values of risk to violence. One-tenth of participants were exposed to low levels of neglect indicators and slightly fewer people (5%) were exposed to higher levels of neglect indicators. There are significant differences regarding exposure to neglect according to the age groups, gender, and marital status, depending on the living situation, years of retirement, practice of physical exercise, existence of chronic disease, alcohol consumption, and frequency of leaving home.


How Do Older Adults Perceive Sexual Unwellness? A Cross-National Qualitative Study with Mexican and Portuguese Older Adults
Sofia von Humboldt, Neyda Ma. Medoza-Ruvalcaba, José Alberto Ribeiro-Gonçalves, Alejandro Chávez-Rodríguez, Elva Dolores Arias-Merino, Gail Low, and Isabel Leal
MDPI AG
Objectives: Perspectives on sexual unwellness (SU), referring to difficulties in achieving sexual satisfaction and maintaining sexual relationships, may vary across different cultural contexts. Understanding how cultural factors such as social norms, religion, family values, and help-seeking behaviors influence SU is crucial. This cross-cultural study aims to explore Mexican and Portuguese older adults’ perspectives on SU in the context of aging in different cultures. Methods: A total of 166 heterosexual older participants living in the community (range = 65 to 98 years of age; mean = 71.54 ± 5.0 years of age) took part. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and interview data were content analyzed. Results: Six SU themes emerged: poor sexual experiences; feeling alone; religious values; medication; not feeling attractive; and feeling pain or physical restrictions. Cross-cultural differences were evident in this study. Older Portuguese participants most often spoke of ‘poor sexual experiences’ (25.5%), ‘religious values’ (18.2%), ‘medication’ (17.3%), ‘feeling alone’ (15.5%), and ‘not feeling attractive’ (15.5%). Older Mexican participants identified most with ‘feeling alone’ (13.7%), followed by ‘poor sexual experiences’ (7.4%) and ‘feeling pain or physical restrictions’ (5.6%). Conclusions: A diversity of experiences of older adults in relation to SU was highlighted in this study. Moreover, cross-cultural research on the construct of SU is essential to understanding the cultural differences in the conceptualization of the construct and how these themes may influence sexual life in old age. Research into older adults’ SU is still scarce; hence, these findings are pertinent for outlining guidelines and health interventions by considering elements that affect SU and by focusing on the sexuality of older people with a deep cultural and ethnic sensitivity.


Sexual Well-Being and Aging Patterns: Findings of a Cluster Analysis among Older Adults in Portugal and Spain
Sofia von Humboldt, Emilia Cabras, Gail Low, and Isabel Leal
MDPI AG
Objectives: From a cross-cultural perspective, aging well may encompass pertinent challenges in terms of adjustment, sexual well-being, and satisfaction with life in the late years. Considering the paucity of empirical data concerning cultural diversity of experiencing aging, this study aims to help fill this gap by assessing the specific patterns of sexual satisfaction, adjustment to aging (AtA), and life satisfaction with life (SwL) of older adults in Portugal and Spain. Methods: This cross-national study included 326 older adults, age 65 and older, from Portugal and Spain. Five instruments were applied: (a) Adjustment to Aging Scale (ATAS); (b) Satisfaction with Life Scale (SwLS); (c) New Sexual Satisfaction Scale-Short (NSSS-S); (d) Mini-Mental State Exam; and (e) Sociodemographic, Health and Lifestyle questionnaire. K-means cluster analysis was employed to identify and characterize the clusters considering adjustments to aging, sexual satisfaction, and life satisfaction. One-way ANOVAs were conducted to analyze differences in sexual well-being among clusters. Results: Findings indicated three clusters, which explained 77.7% (R-sq = 0.777) of the total variance: Cluster 1: “Most skilled” (n = 26, 8.0%), Cluster 2: “Least adjusted” (n = 115, 35.3%), and Cluster 3: “Aging strivers” (n = 185, 56.7%). Participants in Cluster 1 were mostly Portuguese, with high levels of AtA, sexual satisfaction, and SWL. Conversely, Cluster 2 included mostly Portuguese participants with moderate sexual satisfaction and lower levels of AtA and SwL. Participants from Cluster 3 were mostly Spanish, with moderate levels of AtA and reduced sexual satisfaction and SwL. Conclusions: This study innovates by exploring the elaborate interplay among sexual satisfaction, AtA, and SwL in a cross-cultural perspective, with implications for tailoring interventions, service planning, development, and evaluation of culturally diverse older populations.


Mitigating Social Isolation Following the COVID-19 Pandemic: Remedy Messages Shared by Older People
Gail Low, Sofia Humboldt, Gloria Gutman, Zhiwei Gao, Hunaina Allana, Anila Naz, Donna Wilson, and Muneerah Vastani
MDPI AG
At the beginning of July 2022, when public health restrictions were lifted, we deployed a country-wide e-survey about how older people were managing now after COVID-19 pandemic-related anxiety. Our responder sample was stratified by age, sex, and education to approximate the Canadian population. E-survey responders were asked to share open-text messages about what contemporaries could do to live less socially isolated lives at this tenuous turning point following the pandemic as the COVID-19 virus still lingered. Contracting COVID-19 enhanced older Canadians’ risk for being hospitalized and/or mortality risk. Messages were shared by 1189 of our 1327 e-survey responders. Content analysis revealed the following four calls to action: (1) cultivating community; (2) making room for what is good; (3) not letting your guard down; and (4) voicing out challenges. Responders with no chronic illnesses were more likely to endorse making room for what is good. Those with no diploma, degree, or certificate least frequently instructed others to not let their guard down. While COVID-19 is no longer a major public health risk, a worrisome proportion of older people across the globe are still living socially isolated. We encourage health and social care practitioners and older people to share messages identified in this study with more isolated persons.


Mentally healthy living after pandemic social distancing: a study of older Canadians reveals helpful anxiety reduction strategies
Gail Low, Gloria Gutman, Zhiwei Gao, A. França, S. von Humboldt, L. M. Vitorino, Donna M Wilson and Hunaina Allana

BACKGROUND Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, older Canadians were the most at risk of severe physical harm, including death, and their return to post-COVID life was expected to be especially anxiety-provoking. A study was conducted to obtain nationally representative evidence of older Canadians' self-perceived anxiety levels and their strategies to manage or mitigate it as public health restrictions were lifting. MATERIALS AND METHODS This study had a cross-sectional descriptive design. An e-survey was used to collect data from 1327 Canadians aged 60+ stratified by age, sex, and education to resemble the larger general population. Participants completed the Geriatric Anxiety Scale (GAS-10) and indicated which of the 16 Centre for Addictions and Mental Health's (2022) Coping with Stress and Anxiety strategies they were using to manage or mitigate their anxiety when social distancing was lifting. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression analysis were used to explore the data. RESULTS While, on average, older Canadians were mildly anxious, nearly one-quarter of responders rated their anxiety as severe. Age, sex, perceived health, were statistically significant correlates of anxiety. Six coping strategies were associated with significantly lower anxiety scores. Moreover, accepting some fear and anxiety as normal, challenging worries and anxious thoughts, and practising relaxation/meditation appeared to increase anxiety. CONCLUSION Older Canadians used multiple strategies to manage or mitigate their anxiety, and seemingly, with more successful than detrimental tries. Practitioners have much to learn and understand about older people's mental health promotion efforts after social distancing, now and for future pandemics.


Still Out or Coming in? Shame and Double Stigmatization Among Old LGBTQIA+ Adults
Sofia von Humboldt
Springer Nature Switzerland



Patterns of Sexuality, Adjustment to Aging and Satisfaction with Life: A Cluster Analysis of Adults Across the Lifespan
Sofia von Humboldt, Isabel Miguel, Gail Low, and Isabel Leal
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
AbstractSexual satisfaction, adjustment to aging, and satisfaction with life are relevant dimensions of overall well-being across the life cycle. Through cluster analysis procedures, this study aims to describe the specific profile of adjustment to aging, sexual satisfaction and satisfaction with life of adults across the life span. This cross-sectional study involved a community-based sample of 619 Portuguese individuals, aged between 18 and 92 years old (M = 47.53 SD = 18.34) evaluated using a two-step cluster analysis. Fours clusters emerged. The most adjusted participants were mostly of a younger age, women and had a high education. The least adjusted participants globally presented low education, poor perceived health, and poor engagement in leisure activities. Well-being focused participants were mostly women of older age, with high education and spirituality. Finally, moderately satisfied participants were mostly men of older age, had a lower education, and presented poor reported health. Complementary comparative analysis among the identified subgroups was performed. The most adjusted participants had the highest perceived overall sexual well-being, sexual attractiveness, sexual openness and communication, and sexual satisfaction. These data characterize the profile of this population and can be used as the basis for developing efficient strategies aimed a combining adjustment to aging, satisfaction with life and sexual satisfaction for tailored interventions to the specific needs of populations across the lifespan.


Older and heavier: How obesity is experienced by older adults?
Sofia von Humboldt, Namrah Ilyas, and Isabel Leal
Informa UK Limited



What sexual well-being really means for older adults: a systematic review of the literature
Sofia von Humboldt, José Alberto Ribeiro-Gonçalves, Gail Low, and Isabel Leal
Informa UK Limited



Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing? Violent, Abusive, and Harmful Behavior by the Older Person Toward Their Family Caregivers: A Qualitative Study
Sofia von Humboldt, Namrah Ilyas, and Isabel Leal
SAGE Publications
Violent, abusive, and harmful behavior enacted by older adults upon their caregivers represents a distressing and frequently disregarded facet within the domain of caregiving. This qualitative study aims to (a) explore family caregivers’ experiences of violent, abusive, and harmful behavior by the older person and (b) explore how violent, abusive, and harmful behavior by the older person affects family caregivers’ mental health. This qualitative study encompassed 393 participants, with a diverse age range spanning from 40 to 72 years. All the interviews went through the process of content analysis. For the first objective, findings indicated six emerging themes: Frequent and extreme verbal violence (77.3%); feeling manipulated and controlled by older adults (74.7%); experiencing unpredictable illegal circumstances provoked by older adults (62.1%); experiencing damaging financial issues provoked by older adults (43.1%); experiencing physical violence (34.2.%); and experiencing sexual violence (31.1%). The second objective highlighted four themes: depression and anxiety (89.9 %), anger (81.2%), feeling morally isolated (78.3%), and emotional outbursts (65.1%). Brazilian participants mainly experienced frequent and extreme verbal violence (62.4%). Moreover, depression and anxiety were mainly verbalized by English participants (84.3%). These findings underscore the significant toll that older individuals’ violent, abusive, and harmful behavior can have on the mental well-being of family caregivers. This study sheds light on the complex experiences faced by family caregivers and emphasizes the urgent need for targeted interventions to foster healthier caregiving environments. Older individuals’ violent, abusive, and harmful behavior toward their caregivers has received limited attention in research and public discourse. The findings of this study call attention to the pressing need of addressing this issue, given its detrimental impact on the mental health of family carers. Recognizing the significance of this topic demands a comprehensive and targeted approach to ensure the well-being and safety of caregivers and older adults.


Older adults, perceived ageism, civic participation and mental health: a qualitative study
Sofia von Humboldt, Andrea Costa, Namrah Ilyas, and Isabel Leal
Informa UK Limited
OBJECTIVES This study has three objectives: A) To investigate the relationship of ageism on older adults' civic activities; B) To analyze the influence of ageism on mental health; and C) To explore the impact of civic participation on older adults' mental health. METHOD This qualitative study included 782 older people from three different nationalities (Portuguese, Brazilian, and English) ranging in age from 65 to 88. All the interviews went through the process of content analysis. RESULTS For the first objective, the findings encompass one high-level theme (Social and individual incompetence), which included social rejection (86%), reduced competence (84%), expectations of failure (83%), and not being able to contribute (77%). For the second objective, findings indicated two overarching categories: Perceived inability, including frustration and impotence (89%), incompetence (77%) and irrelevance (71%); and Perceived distress, including anger (81%), feelings of anxiety (68%); and emotional bursts (63%). For the third objective, the following two high-level themes emerged: Ego-oriented resources, which comprised the development of a sense of purpose (81%), learning cognitive skills (71%), and (A3) practising sense of agency (67%); and Social-oriented resources, encompassing feeling socially integrated (80%); and expressing emotionally (54%). Findings indicated that the most verbalized themes for the three objectives were the same across the three nationalities. CONCLUSIONS Ageism made it difficult for people to participate in civic life, which has been linked to better mental health. These findings emphasize the need to encourage inclusive civic involvement to improve older individuals' mental health.


Perspectives on perceived workplace age discrimination and engagement: The moderating role of emotion regulation
Isabel Miguel, Sofia von Humboldt, Sara Silva, Patrícia Tavares, Gail Low, Isabel Leal, and Joaquim P. Valentim
Informa UK Limited



How do older adults experience pet companionship? A qualitative study of the affective relationship with pets and its effect on the mental health of older adults during the Covid-19 pandemic
Sofia von Humboldt, Sara Silva, and Isabel Leal
Informa UK Limited



Sexual Well-Being Across the Lifespan: Is Sexual Satisfaction Related to Adjustment to Aging?
Isabel Miguel, Sofia von Humboldt, and Isabel Leal
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Abstract Introduction Sexual satisfaction is relevant to aging well, throughout the lifespan. This study aims to compare the perspectives of sexual satisfaction and adjustment to aging (AtA) in three age cohorts across the lifespan and to analyze whether sexual satisfaction influences the perceptions of AtA. Methods This cross-sectional study comprised 619 participants from three different age cohorts (18–44, 45–64, and 65 + years). Three measures were used to meet the defined objectives: (a) Adjustment to Aging Scale (ATAS), (b) New Sexual Satisfaction Scale (NSSS-S), and (c) sociodemographic, health, and lifestyle questionnaire. Data were subject to MANOVAs and hierarchical regression analyses. Results Social support emerged as the most relevant dimension in the multifactorial nature of AtA. Generational differences were found in sense of purpose and ambitions [F(2, 616) = 14.203, p < .001], zest and spirituality [F(2, 616) = 3.175, p = .042], body and health [F(2, 616) = 8.732, p < .001], and social support [F(2, 616) = 10.646, p < .001], with participants aged 65 and older showing significantly lower levels in all dimensions. Younger participants showed the highest score for body and health. Age-related decreases in sexual satisfaction were also found, as younger participants showed statistically higher levels of sexual satisfaction, followed by middle-aged and older participants. Sexual satisfaction predicts all the dimensions of AtA, exception made for aging in place and stability. Ego-centered sexual satisfaction positively predicted sense of purpose and ambitions (β = .225, p = .015) and social support (β = .297, p < .001), while partner/sexual activity–centered sexual satisfaction was a positive predictor of zest and spirituality (β = .243, p = .010) and body and health (β = .243, p = .008). Conclusions Sexual satisfaction decreases with age and is positively related to dimensions of AtA. Sexual satisfaction is a relevant variable for effective approaches to promoting healthy aging and overall well-being among (older) adults. Policy Implications Gerontological program policies and interventions with older people would strongly benefit of including sexual satisfaction as a relevant variable for aging well along the lifespan.


Suitability of the Attitudes to Aging Questionnaire Short Form for Use among Adults in Their 50s: A Cross-Sectional e-Survey Study
Gail Low, Alex Bacadini França, Donna M. Wilson, Gloria Gutman, and Sofia von Humboldt
MDPI AG
This cross-sectional e-survey study examines the suitability (reliability and validity) of the 12-item Attitudes to Aging Questionnaire Short Form (AAQ-SF) for use among adults in their 50s. The AAQ-SF instrument was originally designed to capture subjective perceptions of physical change, psychosocial loss, and psychological growth by asking people aged 60 and beyond how they feel about growing older. Our sample comprised 517 people residing in three Canadian provinces. Respondents completed the Attitudes to Aging Questionnaire Short Form, the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, and a short sociodemographic profile. Our findings replicate the original AAQ-SF structure for physical change, psychosocial loss, and psychological growth, with a promising internal consistency range for the third subscale. In our sample, psychological growth is best represented as ‘Self’ and ‘Generativity’, with a particularly greater capacity to explain variations in scores for item 18 and item 21. Physical change and psychosocial loss scores strongly differed based on perceived health and chronic illness presence. Psychosocial loss and psychological growth were moderately correlated with two aspects of self-esteem. We relate these patterns of findings within the context of prevailing growth and development theory and their perceived implications within the context of COVID-19 and post-pandemic life.


What Distresses Sexual Well-Being Among Older Adults in Different Cultures? A Qualitative Study with Slovenian and Portuguese Older Adults
Sofia von Humboldt, Joana Rolo, José Alberto Ribeiro-Gonçalves, Ester Benko, Gail Low, and Isabel Leal
Springer Science and Business Media LLC



Sexual Well-Being in Older Adults: a Qualitative Study with Older Adults from Portugal and Slovenia
Sofia von Humboldt, José Alberto Ribeiro-Gonçalves, Andrea Costa, Gail Low, Ester Benko, and Isabel Leal
Springer Science and Business Media LLC



Psychotherapy in old age: older adults’ sexual distress concerning their sexual well-being
Sofia von Humboldt, José Alberto Ribeiro-Gonçalves, Gail Low, and Isabel Leal
Informa UK Limited
ABSTRACT Age and sexual difficulties show a relevant influence in older adults’ sexual well-being (SWB). The objective of this study was to assess sexual issues that affect SWB, revealed by older adults in person-centered therapy, using qualitative research. Interviews with 114 older participants, aged 65 to 82 years, living in the community were submitted to content analysis. Eight main themes emerged from the results of the content analysis: Partner unavailability, family issues, physical changes, worries about hygiene, sexual dysfunctions, fear of physical abuse, and sexual transmitted diseases. This study was relevant toward identifying the sexual issues older adults feel regarding their SWB, as shared in therapy. Older adults referred their greatest issues to be partner unavailability, sexual dysfunctions and physical changes due to aging.

RECENT SCHOLAR PUBLICATIONS

Sexual Well-Being in Old Age: Effectiveness of an Intervention Program to Promote Sexual Well-Being in Older Community-Dwelling Adults.
S von Humboldt, G Low, I Leal
Social Sciences (2076-0760) 13 (12) 2024



Underneath the sheets: A cross-cultural cluster analysis of older adults’ patterns of aging and sexual well-being in Portugal and Mexico
S von Humboldt, NMM Ruvalcaba, G Low, I Leal
Sexuality & Culture 28 (6), 2646-2667 2024



What Really Matters in Old Age? A Study of Older Adults' Perspectives on Challenging Old Age Representations.
S von Humboldt, G Low, I Leal
Social Sciences (2076-0760) 13 (11) 2024



Older adults, perceived ageism, civic participation and mental health: a qualitative study
S von Humboldt, A Costa, N Ilyas, I Leal
Aging & Mental Health 28 (11), 1489-1501 2024



Patterns of Sexuality, Adjustment to Aging and Satisfaction with Life: A Cluster Analysis of Adults Across the Lifespan
S von Humboldt, I Miguel, G Low, I Leal
Applied Research in Quality of Life, 1-17 2024



Older and heavier: How obesity is experienced by older adults?
S von Humboldt, N Ilyas, I Leal
Educational Gerontology, 1-19 2024



What sexual well-being really means for older adults: a systematic review of the literature
S von Humboldt, JA Ribeiro-Gonalves, G Low, I Leal
Educational Gerontology, 1-36 2024



Factors Associated with Older People’s Anxiety Symptom Positioning after COVID-19: Cross-Sectional Findings from a Canadian Sample
G Low, AN AliSher, J Morero, Z Gao, G Gutman, A Franca, ...
Healthcare 12 (18), 1837 2024



“Until COVID-19 Do Us Part”: A Qualitative Study on Perceived Sexual Intimacy and Mental Health in Heterosexual Older Couples During The Covid-19 Pandemic
S von Humboldt, G Low, I Leal
Sexuality & Culture, 1-21 2024



Perspectives on perceived workplace age discrimination and engagement: The moderating role of emotion regulation
I Miguel, S von Humboldt, S Silva, P Tavares, G Low, I Leal, JP Valentim
Educational Gerontology 50 (9), 833-844 2024



Back to Kindergarten? Paternalistic Care Behavior in Healthcare Contexts and Older Adults’ Mental Health
S von Humboldt, S Silva, I Leal
Social Sciences 13 (9), 437 2024



How Do Older Adults Perceive Sexual Unwellness? A Cross-National Qualitative Study with Mexican and Portuguese Older Adults
S von Humboldt, NM Medoza-Ruvalcaba, JA Ribeiro-Gonalves, ...
Social Sciences 13 (8), 435 2024



Neglect in Older Adults: A Sociodemographic and Health Approach in the Portuguese Context
JC Jesus, S von Humboldt, L Soares, I Leal
Social Sciences 13 (8), 419 2024



Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing? Violent, Abusive, and Harmful Behavior by the Older Person Toward Their Family Caregivers: A Qualitative Study
S von Humboldt, N Ilyas, I Leal
Journal of interpersonal violence, 08862605241263589 2024



Sexual well-being and aging patterns: findings of a cluster analysis among older adults in Portugal and Spain
S von Humboldt, E Cabras, G Low, I Leal
European Journal of Investigation in Health, Psychology and Education 14 (7 2024



How do older adults experience pet companionship? A qualitative study of the affective relationship with pets and its effect on the mental health of older adults during the
S von Humboldt, S Silva, I Leal
Educational Gerontology 50 (7), 609-620 2024



Mitigating Social Isolation Following the COVID-19 Pandemic: Remedy Messages Shared by Older People
G Low, S Humboldt, G Gutman, Z Gao, H Allana, A Naz, DM Wilson, ...
COVID 4 (6), 798-814 2024



Still Out or Coming in? Shame and Double Stigmatization Among Old LGBTQIA+ Adults
S von Humboldt
Shame and Ageing in a Transforming World, 97-113 2024



Mentally healthy living after pandemic social distancing: a study of older Canadians reveals helpful anxiety reduction strategies
G Low, G Gutman, Z Gao, AB Frana, S von Humboldt, LM Vitorino, ...
Psychogeriatrics 24 (3), 605-616 2024



Perceptions of Obesity in Old Age: A Qualitative Study
S von Humboldt, N Ilyas, I Leal
European Psychiatry 67 (S1), S562-S562 2024

MOST CITED SCHOLAR PUBLICATIONS

Smart technology and the meaning in life of older adults during the Covid-19 public health emergency period: a cross-cultural qualitative study
S von Humboldt, NM Mendoza-Ruvalcaba, ED Arias-Merino, A Costa, ...
International Review of Psychiatry 32 (7-8), 713-722 2020
Citations: 113



Sense of coherence, sociodemographic, lifestyle, and health-related factors in older adults' subjective well-being
S von Humboldt, I Leal, F Pimenta
International journal of gerontology 9 (1), 15-19 2015
Citations: 78



Validation of the PANAS: A measure of positive and negative affect for use with cross-national older adults
S von Humboldt, A Monteiro, I Leal
Rev. Eur. Stud. 9, 10 2017
Citations: 65



Adjustment to aging in late adulthood: A systematic review
S von Humboldt, I Leal
International Journal of Gerontology 8 (3), 108-113 2014
Citations: 62



What predicts older adults’ adjustment to aging in later life? The impact of sense of coherence, subjective well-being, and sociodemographic, lifestyle, and health-related factors
S von Humboldt, I Leal, F Pimenta
Educational Gerontology 40 (9), 641-654 2014
Citations: 61



Assessing adjustment to aging: A validation study for the Adjustment to Aging Scale (AtAS)
S von Humboldt, I Leal, F Pimenta, J Maroco
Social Indicators Research 119, 455-472 2014
Citations: 57



How do older adults experience intergenerational relationships? Different cultures, ambivalent feelings
S Von Humboldt, A Monteiro, I Leal
Educational Gerontology 44 (8), 501-513 2018
Citations: 54



Sexual expression in old age: How older adults from different cultures express sexually?
S von Humboldt, JA Ribeiro-Gonalves, A Costa, G Low, I Leal
Sexuality Research and Social Policy 18, 246-260 2021
Citations: 49



Examining occupational stress, sources of stress and stress management strategies through the eyes of management consultants: A multiple correspondence analysis for latent
S Von Humboldt, I Leal, T Laneiro, P Tavares
Stress and Health 29 (5), 410-420 2013
Citations: 47



Does spirituality really matter?: A study on the potential of spirituality for older adult's adjustment to aging
S von Humboldt, I Leal, F Pimenta
Japanese Psychological Research 56 (2), 114-125 2014
Citations: 46



Living well in later life: The influence of sense of coherence, and socio-demographic, lifestyle and health-related factors on older adults’ satisfaction with life
S von Humboldt, I Leal, F Pimenta
Applied Research in Quality of Life 9, 631-642 2014
Citations: 45



The old and the oldest-old: Do they have different perspectives on adjustment to aging?
S von Humboldt, I Leal
International Journal of Gerontology 9 (3), 156-160 2015
Citations: 42



Health service accessibility, mental health, and changes in behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative study of older adults
S von Humboldt, G Low, I Leal
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 19 (7), 4277 2022
Citations: 40



Conceptual and methodological issues on the adjustment to aging
S Von Humboldt
International Perspective on Aging (series 15). New York: Springer 2016
Citations: 36



The orientation to life questionnaire: Validation of a measure to assess older adults’ sense of coherence
S von Humboldt, I Leal
Educational Gerontology 41 (6), 451-465 2015
Citations: 31



Analyzing adjustment to aging and subjective age from Angolan and Portuguese community-dwelling older adults' perspectives
S von Humboldt, I Leal, F Pimenta
International Journal of Gerontology 7 (4), 209-215 2013
Citations: 30



Correlates of adjustment to aging among the young-old and the oldest-old: A comparative analysis
S von Humboldt, I Leal
Educational Gerontology 43 (4), 175-185 2017
Citations: 29



The promotion of older adults' sense of coherence through Person-Centered Therapy: A randomized controlled pilot study
S von Humboldt, IP Leal
Interdisciplinaria 30, 235-251 2013
Citations: 29



In the eyes of older adults: Self-reported age and adjustment in African and European older adults
S Von Humboldt, I Leal, F Pimenta, G Niculescu
Health SA Gesondheid 18 (1), 1-10 2013
Citations: 27



Bullying in old age: A qualitative study on older adults’ perceptions about being bullied
S von Humboldt, JA Ribeiro-Gonalves, I Leal
Journal of interpersonal violence 37 (5-6), 2896-2919 2022
Citations: 26

Publications

Torres, M., von Humboldt, S., & Leal, I. (2020). Estudo misto da influência das mudanças sexuais na satisfação sexual dos idosos [Mixed study about the influence of sexual changes in older adults’ sexual satisfaction]. Psicologia, Saúde & Doenças, 21(1), 90-96.