The sexuality of older people is not always easy to talk about, even today, which is why Helsinki is organising the IkäSeks event for the second time. The free event is primarily intended for senior citizens living in Helsinki.
‘Sexuality, intimacy and relationships are part of life, even as people get older. With this event, we want to normalise a topic people are not used to talk about so much,’ culture instructor Hanne Vartiainen points out.
‘The event provides an opportunity to hear, talk and find new perspectives to the topic that can be difficult to talk about,’ she adds.
This is the second year the event is being organised. The clients hoped for information and material about sexuality which would be particularly intended for elderly people.
‘The feedback received from last year’s event encouraged us to continue. The participants thanked Helsinki for boldly tackling the theme and hoped that the event would continue. Our intention is to make IkäSeks an annual event touring different senior centres,’ Vartiainen says.
From a titillating book club to burlesque
Sexuality and sexual health are approached from many different perspectives during the day. The programme includes information sessions about sexual health, a titillating book club, a lecture by Eeva Virkorinne, a tantra workshop, a photo exhibition and a burlesque show. The event will end with a disco requested by the clients.
‘Everyone can participate in the programme according to their own interests and limitations. Participation is voluntary, and you can spend as much time at the event for as long as feels right for you,’ Vartiainen emphasises.
As usual, the programme shows a heat scale which can help visitors in choosing content suitable for themselves. The higher the rating, the more daring the content. However, there will be no nudity at the event.
The event will follow safer space principles. The programme has been compiled considering the diversity of our customers.
The patron of this year’s event is author, journalist and sexual therapist Anja Snellman.