Barriers and facilitators in accessing sexual health services among disabled middle-aged and older adults in England: A qualitative study

Background Middle-aged and older adults are more likely to have disabilities that impact sexual health. However, there is limited research exploring experiences of disabled middle-aged and older adults accessing sexual health services. This qualitative study explored the barriers and facilitators in accessing sexual health services among middle-aged and older disabled adults in England. Objective The objective of this manuscript is to identify the barriers and facilitators of accessing sexual health services among disabled middle-aged and older adults in England. Methods We conducted interviews with nine disabled middle-aged and older adults (aged 45 and above) in England. Participants were recruited through a disability community organisation by online invitation. Interviews were audio-recorded after obtaining verbal consent and transcribed verbatim. We used thematic analysis. The Levesque framework that identifies five dimensions of accessibility was adapted to guide data analysis and interpretation of findings. Results Participant disability types included mobility impairment, visual impairment, hearing impairment, or another long-term condition (a condition that cannot be cured). They faced widespread barriers to accessing sexual health services, some of which included physical inaccessibility, limited inclusivity, and inadequate addressal of sexual health needs. Some reported facilitators were maintaining existing processes, creating a more welcome environment and tailoring services. Conclusions The findings suggest that available sexual health services are not adequately tailored to meet needs of disabled middle-aged and older adults in England. There is an urgent need to adapt existing sexual health services to make them more appropriate for middle-aged and older disabled adults.