Sexuality
Education
Many older adults were raised during an era of sexual repression and may have a high level of internalized negative attitudes and misinformation about sex. Although such attitudes could be addressed through education (Hillman and Stricker), older adults often have few opportunities to receive education about sexual issues. While health care providers are in a good position to inform older individuals about sexual issues and dispel myths and misunderstandings, this education seldom occurs. The idea that sexuality is a lifelong process contradicts the beliefs of many health care providers, and all too often they fail to take into account sexual issues when treating older patients (Kennedy et al.). The AARP survey found that most older adults receive information about sex from books or magazines. A widespread need exists to educate all health care providers, including nursing home caregivers, about sex and older adults to help promote a more natural integration of sexual activity into the lives of those who desire it.
JUDITH LEVY RITA STROMBECK
See also ANDROPAUSE; MENOPAUSE; URINARY INCONTINENCE.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
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Additional topics
Medicine EncyclopediaAging Healthy - Part 4Sexuality - Sex And Aging, Normal Physiological Changes In Older Adults, Sexual Dysfunction, Nursing Homes, Hiv/aids And Other Sexually Transmitted Diseases