Sexuality and Sexually Transmitted Disease Awareness in the Older Adult

The increased incidence of Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs), resulting from unsafe sexual practices by older adults is rising dramatically. Several factors compound the risks older adults face practicing safe sex. These arise from both patient and nurse related issues. Older adults have social and perception factors as well as natural physiological age-related changes adding to their physical risks. A lack of awareness on the part of both patients and nurses on clinical signs and symptoms of STDs specific to older populations adds another facet to the issue. This prevents older adults from seeking care promptly and contributes to missed cues by nurses in both general and advanced practice. Misconceptions of older adults sexuality and sexual practices by healthcare professionals including nursing students, contributes to their low screening and education despite the self-acknowledged importance nurses give this role in their patient care. A multiple choice written survey of University of Florida Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree students (BSN) assessed student baseline knowledge on older adults sexuality and STDs. Student demographic data was assessed to explore any relationships for stronger performance on clinical survey questions by students related to student gender, age, or clinical experience level. The survey results support the incorporation of adult sexuality and STD material into nursing curriculum foci at any levels of study, namely undergraduate level. By taking the lead on acknowledging this professional shortcoming, then adapting at early stages of nursing education and development, we can implement known success strategies in acore area of nursing strength holistic care.