Older people’s nursing: let’s talk about sexuality
Ageism continues to drive a societal myth that older people are asexual and sexual expression in later life is inappropriate. This has consequences, contributing to unmet needs, missed diagnoses of sexual health conditions such as infections or dysfunction, and poorer overall well-being. Nurses are in a strong position to start conversations about sexual health and well-being
Nurses are in a strong position to start conversations about sexual health and well-being, and make it an integral component of older people’s nursing care
Sexuality, including desire, expression and intimacy, does not stop with age. Yet healthcare, and nursing practice in particular, often behaves as if it does. Ageism continues to drive the societal myth that older people are asexual and that sexual expression in later life is inappropriate.
‘Avoidance is not a neutral stance; it reinforces ageism and further marginalises older people’s sexual health needs’
As my CPD article Exploring sexuality and ageism and the nurse’s role in supporting sexual health in older adults highlights, this invisibility has consequences, contributing to unmet needs, missed diagnoses of sexual health conditions such as infections or dysfunction, and poorer overall well-being.
As nurses, we routinely assess multiple aspects of older people’s health and well-being, yet sexual health is frequently overlooked. Ageist assumptions about asexuality can shape nurses’ beliefs and contribute to discomfort when initiating conversations about sexual health and well-being with older adults.
Nurses are in a strong position to facilitate conversations about sexual health and well-being
This discomfort can lead to avoidance. Avoidance is not a neutral stance; it reinforces ageism and further marginalises older people’s sexual health needs. Nurses are trusted professionals who have frequent contact with older people, placing us in a strong position to facilitate sensitive and respectful conversations about sexual health and well-being, as we would for any other aspect of care.
In older people’s nursing, person-centred and holistic care are core principles. Care cannot truly be holistic if sexual health and well-being are excluded. Ignoring this aspect of health risks sending a powerful message to older people that their concerns are inappropriate, embarrassing or unimportant.
Nurses can, and should, lead change in this area. This begins with reflecting on our personal beliefs and assumptions about ageing and sexuality. It also requires normalising sexual health and well-being questions in routine assessments, using simple, respectful language, and being prepared to challenge ageist comments or practices when they arise.
As nurses, we should recognise sexual health and well-being as an integral component of older people’s nursing care.
