Older women (N=50) were asked a series of questions about reference groups, sex roles, sexuality, sexual desire at different stages in the life cycle, appropriateness of certain types of sexual behavior, adjustment to aging, life satisfaction, organizational activities, and male/female interaction. Quantitative and qualitative data provided the basis for several findings: (1) social relationships in old age involve extensive contact with other women; (2) age and social class determine the integration of sexuality into life; (3) conformance to traditional attitudes is limiting; (4) the values of one's closest peer-reference group have a strong impact on one's sexual attitudes and behavior; (5) organizational activities do not necessarily ensure contact with men; (6) a low level of sexual desire does not appear to affect life satisfaction negatively; and (7) changing attitudes toward men determine sexual interaction. Findings suggest that these women experience a relinquishment of social relationships and roles typical of adulthood, i.e., wife, homemaker, sexual partner, mother, as well as an acceptance of new roles and relationships typical of later years, typified by minimal contact with men, extensive contact with women, and a decreased importance of sexuality. (Author/NRB)