Development and validation of a sexual actualization measuring instrument for the elderly

The objective of this study was to develop a measuring instrument for assessing sexual actualization of the elderly and test some of its metrological properties. The assistance of experts on sexology, gerontology, and the actualization of potential was required. The questionnaire was sent twice, at a 2-week interval, to individuals who showed an interest in the study. Of the 115 people who answered the questionnaire, 52 were women, with a mean age of 67.3, and 63 were men, with a Mean age of 68.9. The results show good-temporal stability (intraclass correlation coefficient=.89) and strong internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha =.97). Two construct validity studies were conducted. The first consisted in comparing the Sexual Actualization Questionnaire (SAQ) and a general well-being scale; no significant relationship was found (r =. 07; p =.41). However the results of the second study, which compared the SAQ scores of the senior individuals who had been sexually active with those who had not, were significant (p <.05).