Sexuality is at the core of who we are and has an impacton our lives in so many ways. It does not stop once we hit the ageof 60 or 70 or 90 or even 100 despite the myths and assumptions ofsociety. Sexual desire does not necessarily dissipate with age, butthe physical, cognitive, and psychosocial changes that can occurwith aging may interfere with sexual outcomes. As health careprofessionals we may feel a level of discomfort when discussingissues of sexuality with older patients; student nurses are nodifferent. Student nurses report a level of discomfort whencompleting a sexual assessment with a patient and even more so withthe older patient.
Reflect and discuss the followingquestions:
What makes you uncomfortable when you talk with yourclients about issues of sexuality and why? Discuss the impact thatyour uncomfortableness can have on your patient interaction andcommunication.
