Understanding Beliefs About Sexuality in Later Life: A Latent Profile Analysis of Attitudes, Knowledge, and Ageism

Sexuality remains an important component of well-being across the lifespan, yet perceptions of sexuality in later life may be shaped by knowledge, ageist beliefs, and broader sexual attitudes. This study aimed to identify distinct profiles based on attitudes towards older adults’ sexuality, knowledge about sexuality in later life, and ageism, and to examine the characteristics associated with profile membership. A cross-sectional sample of 425 Spanish adults aged 18–88 years completed measures of these constructs and general sexual attitudes. Latent profile analysis identified three profiles: less favourable (38.4%), intermediate (35.1%), and more favourable (26.6%). The less favourable profile combined lower knowledge and less permissive attitudes with higher ageism, whereas the more favourable profile showed the opposite pattern. Multinomial logistic regression indicated that general sexual attitudes were consistently associated with profile membership. Educational attainment, gender, and marital status also differentiated specific profile contrasts, whereas age and religious self-identification did not independently predict membership after adjustment. These findings demonstrate substantial heterogeneity in perceptions of sexuality in later life and support person-centred approaches to their study. Educational initiatives should address knowledge, ageist beliefs, and broader sexual attitudes rather than relying solely on sociodemographic characteristics.