PhD Studentship in Improving Communication Between Professionals and Older Adults About their Sexual Health and Well-Being Needs

Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry & Health                                                   

Improving communication between professionals and older adults about their sexual health and well-being needs

Primary Supervisor: Dr Sharron Hinchliff

Project:

The UK population is ageing: it has been estimated that by 2035 there will be significantly more citizens over the age of 65 than under the age of age 16. However, the sexual health and well-being needs of older adults remains an area that is not prioritised in policy or practice, and this is in spite of growing recognition that sexual activity is often as important to older adults as it is to their younger counterparts. Older adults may experience sexual difficulties that result from ageing or illness, and a limited body of research has identified that barriers exist in relation to seeking and receiving help for sexual issues. These barriers can result from the older adult her/himself (e.g. being unaware who to ask for help; feeling embarrassed) or the professional (e.g. feeling as though their role dictates that they should be reactive rather than proactive). This study will explore the experiences of professionals who work with older adults in health or social care settings (e.g. primary care; residential care; secondary care) to identify barriers and facilitators to sexual health care. The focus can be on a specific health condition (e.g. stroke), on sexual health generally, or be comparative and thus examine more than one context / health condition. The results will be used to inform service development and to improve clinical practice.

Entry Requirements:

Candidates must have a first or upper second class honours degree or significant research experience.

Enquiries:

Interested candidates should in the first instance contact Dr Sharron Hinchliff s.hinchliff@sheffield.ac.uk

How to apply:

Please complete a University Postgraduate Research Application form and attach at least two references to your application.  To complete the application form please click the ‘Apply’ button below.

Please clearly state the prospective main supervisor in the respective box and select ‘Nursing and Midwifery as the department.

Website: http://www.shef.ac.uk/snm/research

Closing date: 3^rd February 2014