1. Sexuality in Older Adults B. Renee Dugger, DNP, RN, GCNS-BC*

2. Acknowledgement of Resources Utilized
*Special acknowledgement and thanks to Meredith Wallace PhD, APRN, A/GNP-BC and the Geriatric Nursing Education Consortium (GNEC) for resources utilized for this presentation
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3. GNEC
The Geriatric Nursing Education Consortium (GNEC) is a national initiative of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) to enhance geriatric content in senior-level undergraduate nursing courses. This project is generously funded by the John A. Hartford Foundation. Further information about the GNEC program can be found at
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4. Objectives Identify myths about sexuality in the aging population.
Describe changes expected to occur as we age and the barriers/challenges these changes present to sexual health.
Discuss the impact of disease processes, medications and environment on the sexual health of older adults.
Identify ways to assess and promote the sexual health of older adults.

5. Myth Busting Sexual Health
Is important to an individual’s self-identity and general well-being.
Contributes to the satisfaction of physical needs.
Fulfills social, emotional, and psychological components of life.
Evokes sentiments of joy, romance, affection, passion, and intimacy.

6. Myth Busting Many believe that older adults are asexual
There is a general discomfort with sexual issues in the U.S.
Health care professionals are typically not educated to manage sexual health issues of older adults.
Sexual health is often ignored in the assessment of older adult health.
Many older adults have internalized these misconceptions, and believe that sexuality is an inappropriate concern for them.

7. Myth Busting
The beliefs and misconceptions about older adult sexuality result in the attitude that older adult sexuality is not worth considering.
Lack of education, experience and negative attitudes toward aging sexuality results in an inability to meet sexual desires and maintain sexual health.

8. Myth Busting
Many people believe that sexual desires diminish and disappear with age.
Others believe that sexual activity in long-term care facilities is against the rules.
Older adults are often assumed to be heterosexual. The presence of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) older adults is not often considered a possibility.
“My father maybe, but my mother, never.”
Sexual intercourse is often thought of as a young, healthy person’s activity for the purpose of procreation.

9. Myth Busting Sexuality …
provides for expressions of affection and passion.
Enhances the life experience.
Enriches connection and communication.
Sexuality is alive and well among older adults:
Research conducted by Lindau et al (2007) revealed that in a study of 3005 U.S. older adults current sexual activity was reported in 73% of adults aged 57 to 64, 53% of adults aged 65 to 74 and 26% of adults aged 75 to 84.
Level IV
Lindau, S.T., Schumm, L.P., Laumann, E.O., Levinson, W., O’Muircheartaigh, C.A., & Waite, L.J. (2007). A study of sexuality and health among older adults in the United States, The New England Journal of Medicine, 357,
(Lindau, et al., 2007)

10. Older adults continue to be sexual beings.
Reality
Older adults continue to be sexual beings.
However, older adults may require assistance to manage sexual health needs by examining:
Barriers to sexual health.
Impact of normal aging changes, as well as acute & chronic illnesses, medications and environmental issues on sexual health.

11. Why Should We Promote the Sexual Health of Older adults?
The expression of sexuality among older adults results in a higher quality of life achieved by fulfilling a natural desire. It also may…
Improve functional status.
Improve mood.

12. Older Adult Barriers to Sexual Health
Older adults may lack knowledge and comfort with sexual health issues.
Older adults are not always familiar with safe sex practices.
Older adults may not be aware of alternative sexual acts and positions to accommodate health needs.
In a survey study of 81 older community dwelling outpatients, more than half could not name any risk factors for Erectile Dysfunction (ED). Patients preferred the internet and general practitioners as primary sources for sexually-related information.
The authors concluded that sexuality patient information and education requires more attention.
Level IV
Baumgartner, M. K., Hermanns, T., Cohen, A., Schmid, D. M., Seifert, B., Sulser, T. et al. (2008). Patients' knowledge about risk factors for erectile dysfunction is poor. J.Sex.Med., 5(10),
(Baumgartner et al., 2008)

13. Older Adult Barriers to Sexual Health
Old habits
Negative experiences
Fear of discussing sexuality
Victorian attitudes toward sexuality
Lack of opportunity (no partners or privacy)
Cultural attitudes toward sexuality

14. Case #1
Taken from: McNicoll, L. (2008). Issues of sexuality in the elderly Geriatrics for the Practicing Physician, 91(10),
Read Case #1 – example/sample issue
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15. Health Care Provider Barriers to Sexual Health in Older Adults
A study of 100 patients aged 39 to 86 and their health care providers revealed that less than 10% of providers asked patients about erectile
function, although over 90% of patients were interested in treatment (Chitale, et al., 2007)
Providers:
Are subject to myths and attitudes about sexuality and aging.
May be insensitive to older adults needs.
Don’t know how to manage sexual health issues.
Experience discomfort in managing sexual issues.
Level IV
Chitale, S., Collins, R., Hull, S., Smith, E., & Irving, S. (2007). Is the current practice providing an integrated approach to the management of LUTS and ED in primary care? an audit and literature review. J.Sex.Med., 4(6),
(Chitale et al., 2007)

16. Other Barriers to Older Adult Sexual Health
Societal discomfort with issues of homosexuality
Older people are homosexual too!
They may have not come out yet
LGBT may fear physical harm for coming out
Require great sensitivity due to years of isolation
Physical Barriers to Sexual Health
Normal aging changes
Pathological changes
Chronic pain
Cognitive impairment
Environmental restrictions
Body image
Adverse medication effects

17. Normal Aging Changes that Impact Sexual Health
The ‘sexual response cycle’, or the organized pattern of physical response to sexual stimulation, changes with age. These changes impact sexual health in both:
Women
Men

18. Normal Aging Changes Female Sexual Response
After sexual intercourse, women return to the pre-aroused stage faster than they would at an earlier age.
Vaginal contractions become fewer and weaker during orgasm.

19. Normal Aging Changes Female Sexual Response
Vaginal wall thinning
Decreased/delayed vaginal lubrication (may lead to pain)
Labia atrophy
Vagina shortens
Cervix may descend downward into the vagina
Loss of fat pad over pubic symphysis may lead to pain from direct pressure over bone
Vaginal contractions become fewer and weaker during orgasm
Many of these changes are a result of loss of estrogen after menopause
Decreased/delayed vaginal lubrication, which may lead to pain during intercourse

20. Normal Aging Changes Male Sexual Response
The Massachusetts male aging study of 1085 older men indicated that age was an independent risk factor for decreased sexual function in older men.
Level IV
Araujo, A. B., Mohr, B. A., & McKinlay, J. B. (2004). Changes in sexual function in middle-aged and older men: Longitudinal data from the Massachusetts male aging study. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, 52(9),
(Araujo et al., 2004)

21. Normal Aging Changes Male Sexual Response
Decreased testosterone hormone levels
Weaker erection to erectile dysfunction (ED)
More direct stimulation of the penis required for erection
Orgasms are fewer and weaker
Reduced force and amount of ejaculation
Increased refractory period after ejaculation
the impact on sexual functioning is not as significant as in women

22. Other Age-Related Changes that Impact Sexual Health
Many individual psychosocial and cultural factors play a role in how older adults perceive themselves as sexual beings, such as:
Life long beliefs about sexual health.
General physical and psychological well-being.
Body image issues from aging changes
Cultural beliefs about sexual practice.
Bodily changes, such as wrinkles and sagging skin may result in self-consciousness that impacts sexual relations.

23. Sexual Dysfunction Sexual disorders fall into four categories:
Hypoactive sexual desire disorder,
Sexual arousal disorder
Orgasmic disorder
Sexual pain disorders
Sexual dysfunction is prevalent worldwide, and the occurrence of sexual dysfunctions increases directly with age for both men and women.
There is strong support for the increased frequency of symptoms with age.
Pathological changes of aging are major risk factors for sexual disorders.
Level V
Walsh, K. E., & Berman, J. R. (2004). Sexual dysfunction in the older woman: An overview of the current understanding and management. Drugs & Aging, 21( ).
Derogatis, L. R., & Burnett, A. L. (2008). The epidemiology of sexual dysfunctions. J.Sex.Med., 5(2),
(Walsh & Berman, 2004)
(Derogatis & Burnett, 2008)

24. Pathological Changes
There are a number of medical conditions that cause sexual dysfunction among older people, including:
Heart Disease
Diabetes
Depression
Breast and Prostate Cancers
HIV/AIDS
Cognitive Impairment/Dementia

25. Heart Disease and Female Sexual Health
In a study of 2,763 postmenopausal women, the presence of coronary heart disease was significantly associated with:
Lack of sexual interest
Inability to relax during sexual activity
Arousal and orgasmic disorders
General discomfort with sex
Level IV
Addis, I. B., Ireland, C. C., Vittinghoff, E., Lin, F., Stuenkel, C. A., & Hulley, S. (2005). Sexual activity and function in postmenopausal women with heart disease. Obstetrics and Gynecology, 106(1),
(Addis et al., 2005)

26. Heart Disease & Male Sexual Health
In a study of 1,357 men with heart disease world wide, the prevalence of ED in the sample was 50.7% and a significant decline in sexual activity was reported after the diagnosis of cardiovascular disease.
Level IV
Bohm, M., Baumhakel, M., Probstfield, J. L., Schmieder, R., Yusuf, S., Zhao, F. et al. (2007). Sexual function, satisfaction, and association of erectile dysfunction with cardiovascular disease and risk factors in cardiovascular high-risk patients: Substudy of the ONgoing telmisartan alone and in combination with ramipril global endpoint Trial/Telmisartan randomized AssessmeNT study in ACE-INtolerant subjects with cardiovascular disease (ONTARGET/TRANSCEND). American Heart Journal, 154(1),
(Bohm et al., 2007)

27. Diabetes & Sexual Health
Diabetes is a significant concern among older adults, effecting approximately 10.9 million, or 26.9% of all people in this age group in the U.S each year. American Diabetes Association,
Diabetes effects sexual health among older adults in a number of ways:
impacts sexual function.
impacts arousal and pleasurable sensations.
Up to 50% of men and 25% of women may experience some kind of sexual problems or a loss of sexual desire as a result of diabetes. Nerves that tell the body to release lubricant into the vaginal area can become damaged if you have diabetes. In addition, vaginal dryness occurs after menopause in many women. Problems with libido and orgasm seem to be more common in women with diabetes. For men, diabetes can cause damage to the nervous system over a sustained period of time, also known as diabetic neuropathy. One aspect of this is the potential for diabetes to damage the erectile tissue leaving it impossible for a man to achieve or maintain an erection.
Almost 1 in 3 men with diabetes suffer from erectile dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction can be the way in which men discover that they have diabetes.
However, through strict management if the disease through diet, exercise, pills and insulin injections, minor sexual problems usually recede and it is possible for the man to achieve and erection
For some women with diabetes, vaginitis (inflammation of the vagina) can be recurrent. Bacterial vaginitis occurs due to yeast infections and thrush is the most common of the conditions.
This can make sex painful, and is heralded by itching or burning sensations.
Cystitis can also be a recurrent problem for women with diabetes.
Furthermore, some evidence indicates that, in a similar way to men being unable to maintain an erection, the woman’s clitoris may fail to respond to stimulation
Approximately 42% of those with diabetes are aged 65 years or older.

28. Diabetes & Sexual Health
In a study of eight women aged 24 – 83, older women with diabetes reported lower sexual function, desire and enjoyment than their younger counterparts. In a study of 373 men aged with type II diabetes, 49.8% of the men reported mild or moderate degrees of ED, and 24.8% had complete ED.
(RockliffeFidler & Kiemle, 2003)
Level IV
RockliffeFidler, C., & Kiemle, G. (2003). Sexual function in diabetic women: A psychological perspective. Sexual and Relationship Therapy, 18(2),
Level II
Rosen, R. C., Wing, R. R., Schneider, S., Wadden, T. A., Foster, G. D., West, D. S. et al. (2009). Erectile dysfunction in type 2 diabetic men: Relationship to exercise fitness and cardiovascular risk factors in the look AHEAD trial. J.Sex.Med., 6(5),
(Rosen et al., 2009)

29. Depression & Sexual Health
The presence of depression among older adults impacts sexual health
Decline in desire
Decline in ability to perform
Both the disease and treatment can impact sexual health
A study of 3,810 men aged years revealed that men with ED had significantly lower mental health scores.
Depression is under diagnosed in older adults
Level IV
Korfage, I. J., Pluijm, S., Roobol, M., Dohle, G. R., Schroder, F. H., & Essink-Bot, M. L. (2009). Erectile dysfunction and mental health in a general population of older men. J.Sex.Med., 6(2),
(Korfage et al., 2009)

30. Female Reproductive System Cancer & Sexual Health
Women with breast and other reproductive system cancers may have difficulty adjusting to disease and treatment due to their association with bodily changes in self image that impact sexuality. Quintard, 2008
One hundred women with breast cancer were randomly assigned to a group receiving beauty treatments during hospitalization or a control group.
Three months after surgery, patients who had received beauty treatments reported higher body-image scores than the control group, but there was no effect in psychological distress.
Level II
Quintard, B., & Lakdja, F. (2008). Assessing the effect of beauty treatments on psychological distress, body image, and coping: A longitudinal study of patients undergoing surgical procedures for breast cancer. Psycho-Oncology, 17(10),

31. Prostate Cancer & Sexual Health
Men with prostate cancer who have undergone surgical or radiation treatments may experience ED following treatment.
The rate of erectile dysfunction following radical prostatectomy has been reported to be greater than 80%.
Level II
Siegel, T., Moul, J. W., Spevak, M., Alvord, W.G., & Costabile, R.A. (2001). The development of erectile dysfunction in men treated for prostate cancer. Journal of Urology, 165,
(Siegel et al., 2001)

32. HIV and Older Adults
HIV cases among older adults in the US is increasing, with ~25% of infections occurring in adults over 50.
Older adults with HIV/AIDS and other STDs should be taught to follow CDC safe sex practices, as this was not routinely covered in formal education.
The use of antiretroviral medications may be complicated by multiple chronic comorbidities and treatments.
HIV-infected patients need continuous treatment with antiretroviral agents to suppress viral replication and maintain immune function.
(Martin et al., 2008)
Level V
Martin, C. P., Fain, M. J., & Klotz, S. A. (2008). The older HIV-positive adult: A critical review of the medical literature. The American Journal of Medicine, 121(12),
Level IV Magalhaes, M. G., Greenberg, B., Hansen, H., & Glick, M. (2007). Comorbidities in older patients with HIV: A retrospective study. The Journal of the American Dental Association, 138(11),
(Magalhaes et al., 2007)

33. Urinary Incontinence & Sexual Health
While not well-studied, the presence of urinary incontinence (UI) is theorized to interfere with sexual function among older adults related to:
Shame and embarrassment
Avoidance of sexual activity for fear of incontinence
In a study of 2, 361 Community-dwelling women aged 55 to 95, UI was significantly associated with alterations in sexual activity.
Level IV
Tannenbaum, C., Corcos, J., & Assalian, P. (2006). The relationship between sexual activity and urinary incontinence in older women. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, 54(8),
(Tannenbaum et al., 2006)

34. Other Medical Conditions Impacting Sexual Health
Strokes and subsequent aphasias impact sexual health via difficulties in desire, function and communication
Parkinson’s disease (PD)
In a study of 444 older adults with PD, sexual limitations were reported in 73.5% of the sample as a product of difficulty in movement.
Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy (BPH)
In older men altered circulation to the penis may affect erectile function, sexual arousal and ejaculatory dysfunction.
(Lemieux et al., 2001)
Level IV Lemieux, L., CohenSchneider, R., & Holzapfel, S. (2001). Aphasia and sexuality. Sexuality and Disability, 19(4),
Level IV Mott, S., Kenrick, M., Dixon, M., & Bird, G. (2005). Sexual limitations in people living with parkinson's disease. Australasian Journal on Ageing, 24(4),
Level V: Rosen, R. C. (2006). Assessment of sexual dysfunction in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia. BJU International, 97 Suppl 2, 29-33; discussion 44-5.
(Mott et al., 2005),
(Rosen, 2006)

35. Cognitive Impairment & Sexual Health
Sexual needs among older adults with cognitive impairment may manifest in inappropriate & hypersexual behavior. In a study of older, cognitively impaired older adults, 1.8% had sexually inappropriate behavior manifesting in verbal and physical problems. (Nagaratnam, et al, 2002)
Level IV
Nagaratnam, N., & Gayagay, G. (2002). Hypersexuality in nursing care facilities—a descriptive study. Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics, 35(3),

36. Sexual Behaviors Common to Cognitively Impaired Older Adults
Grabbing & groping
Touching genitals
Sexual remarks
Propositioning
Use of obscene language
Masturbating in public areas
Aggression and irritability

37. Environmental Barriers
Older adults who live in long-term care facilities or with family members may lack privacy for sexual relations. There is an absence of male partners for older women - 60% of older women are partnerless

38. Effect of Medications and Treatments on Sexual Health
Antidepressants including Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI), Tricyclic Antidepressants, Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI) impact libido and sexual function
In a study of 610 women and 412 men, 59.1% of the individuals taking SSRI antidepressant medications reported sexual dysfunction.
MAO inhibitors and Tricyclic Antidepressants have decreased in favor of SSRIs leading to lower side effects, but all can impact sexual function by reducing sexual drive and causing impotence and erectile and orgasmic disorders.
Level IV
Montejo, A. L., Llorca, G., Izquierdo, J. A., & Rico-Villademoros, F. (2001). Incidence of sexual dysfunction associated with antidepressant agents: A prospective multicenter study of 1022 outpatients. spanish working group for the study of psychotropic-related sexual dysfunction. The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 62 Suppl 3,
(Montejo et al., 2001)

39. Effect of Medications and Treatments on Sexual Health
Antihypertensives including: ACE inhibitors, Alpha Blockers, Beta Blockers, Calcium Channel Blockers, Clonidine, Methyldopa and Thiazide Diuretics can result in impotence, decreased libido and ejaculatory disturbances among older adults.
Cholesterol lowering medications, including statins and fibrates, may impact male sexual health via ED.
Other medications such as antipsychotics (Phenothiazine & Risperidone) seizure medications (Carbamazepine) and H2 Blockers (Cimetidine) also impact sexual health due to effecting libido & ejaculation problems.

40. Case #2
Taken from: McNicoll, L. (2008). Issues of sexuality in the elderly Geriatrics for the Practicing Physician, 91(10),
Read 2nd case
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41. Assessment of Sexual Health
Assessment of sexual health is the first step in developing a plan of care to fulfill the sexual needs of an older population.

42. OPENING THE DOOR: Sexual Health History Questions
Can you tell me how you express your sexuality?
What concerns do you have about fulfilling your sexual needs?
In what ways has your sexual relationship with your partner changed as you have aged?
What interventions or information can I provide to help you to fulfill your sexuality?
Level V
Wallace, M. (2000). Sexuality and Intimacy. In Textbook of Gerontological Nursing, 2nd Ed. St. Louis: Mosby Year Book, Inc.
What questions do you have about your sexual needs and function?
(Wallace, 2000)

43. P LI SS IT PLISSIT MODEL (Annon, 1976)
Obtaining permission from the client to initiate sexual discussion LI
Providing the limited information needed to function sexually SS
Giving specific suggestions for the individual to proceed with sexual relations IT
Providing intensive therapy surrounding the issues of sexuality for that client
The PLISSIT Model was initiated in the 70s and remains a good model to follow when assessing and planning for sexual health with anyone – including older adults.
Level IV
Annon, J. (1976). The PLISSIT model: A proposed conceptual scheme for the behavioral treatment for sexual problems. Journal of Sex Education Therapy, 2(2), 1-15.
This article originally appeared in the Journal of Sex Education and Therapy, a publication of the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT).
Printed with permission.

44. Elements of Assessment
Health history & review of systems
Drug review
Physical assessment
Assessment for cognitive impairment and impact on sexual health decision making
Labs - ? Testosterone levels
CT/MRI ? For hypersexual behaviors

45. Assessment Essentials
Find a quiet, private area.
Perform assessment in a respectful manner that conveys understanding of the continuing sexual needs of older adults.
The more comfortable the healthcare provider is with the assessment, the more comfortable the client will be.
Role play assessment/management planning prior to actual client encounter.

46. Diagnosis of Sexual Health Problems
Diagnosis of sexual problems and development of a plan of care to meet the sexual health needs of older adults is essential to improved sexual health and quality of life.

47. Management of Sexual Health Needs
Promote a healthy lifestyle.
Compensate for normal age-related changes.
Manage diseases that impact sexual health.
Review medications that impact sexual health.
Modify environment to facilitate sexual health functioning.

48. Health Promotion
What’s good for the head and heart is good for the _____.
Eating healthy foods, getting adequate amounts of sleep, exercising, decreasing alcohol intake, stress-management techniques, and not smoking are essential to sexual health.
Remember the info about diabetes and coronary heart disease management

49. Compensate for Disease & Normal Aging Changes
Provide patient teaching about normal aging changes and impact of diseases on sexual function and image.
Discuss need for longer fore-play arousal time to compensate for normal aging changes.
Consider alternative positions or forms of intimacy when sexual intercourse is uncomfortable or not possible.
Understand the principle of: “Use it or lose it.”
Include safe sex practices in all client teaching encounters.

50. Compensate for Disease & Normal Aging Changes
Consider use of artificial water based lubricants and estrogen gels/patches/creams for vaginal dryness
In a multicenter, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study, 305 women with symptoms of vaginal atrophy were treated with a low-dose synthetic conjugated estrogen A (SCE-A) cream twice weekly. The results indicated that the cream was effective compared with placebo in treating symptoms of vaginal atrophy, including pain.
Level II
Freedman, M., Kaunitz, A. M., Reape, K. Z., Hait, H., & Shu, H. (2009). Twice-weekly synthetic conjugated estrogens vaginal cream for the treatment of vaginal atrophy. Menopause (New York, N.Y.), 16(4),
(Freedman et al., 2009)

51. The Many Faces of ED Treatment. (
The Many Faces of ED Treatment* (*The speaker does not recommend any particular drug treatment)
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52. Compensate for Disease & Normal Aging Changes
Options for normal aging changes to erectile function:
Vacuum pumps
Injection therapy
Implants
Talk therapy
Oral erectile agents

53. Compensate for Disease & Normal Aging Changes
The use of oral erectile agents such as sildenafil Citrate (Viagra®), vardenafil HCL (Levitra®), and tadalifil (Cialis®) have greatly aided management of ED.
There are a number of erectile agents available in the form of injectable treatments. These are effective treatments for ED, however some are preferred more than others due to pain from the injections.
Level II
Wespes, E., Moncada, I., Schmitt, H., Jungwirth, A., Chan, M., & Varanese, L. (2007). The influence of age on treatment outcomes in men with erectile dysfunction treated with two regimens of tadalafil: Results of the SURE study. BJU International, 99(1),
Level II Shah, P. J., Dinsmore, W., Oakes, R. A., & Hackett, G. (2007). Injection therapy for the treatment of erectile dysfunction: A comparison between alprostadil and a combination of vasoactive intestinal polypeptide and phentolamine mesilate. Current Medical Research and Opinion, 23(10),
(Wespes et al., 2007)
(Shah et al., 2007)

54. Heart Disease Management & Sexual Health
Many medications for the treatment of hypertension and cardiovascular disease impact sexual function
Provide patient teaching about these adverse medication effects.
Be sure to assess whether patient’s medication is adversely impacting sexual function and consider change in medications when appropriate and possible.
A study of 22 male hypertensive patients measured the effect of an eight week exercise training program on Erectile function. The results showed
that the exercise training program resulted in a significant improvement in erectile function of hypertensive patients . The authors concluded that
exercise is a good nonpharmacologic management of ED in male hypertensive patients.
Level II
Lamina, S., Okoye, C. G., & Dagogo, T. T. (2009). Therapeutic effect of an interval exercise training program in the management of erectile dysfunction in hypertensive patients. Journal of Clinical Hypertension (Greenwich, Conn.), 11(3),

55. Heart Disease Management & Sexual Health
92 men; mean age 58 were studied after MI/acute coronary syndromes &/or coronary artery bypass graft
Intervention group: (n=47) 1) patient education, 2) cognitive restructuring, 3) emotional support, 4) guided imagery, and 5) medication (Viagra)
Control group: (n=45) 1) cardiac rehabilitation without other intervention elements
Results: Intervention group able to 1) resume sexual activity within 1 month of their cardiac event (87% vs. 50% in control), 2) greater improvement in libido, 3) confidence to attain erection, 4) satisfaction with sexual relationship, 5) frequency of erection, and 6) enjoyment of sex.
Level II
Klein, R., Bar-on, E., Klein, J., & Benbenishty, R. (2007). The impact of sexual therapy on patients after cardiac events participating in a cardiac rehabilitation program. Eur.J.Cardiovasc.Prev.Rehabil., 14(5),
(Klein et al., 2007)

56. Diabetes & Sexual Health
Effective management of diabetes will prevent circulatory and sensory changes that impact sexual health. Make sure clients:
Test blood for elevated glucose levels.
Manage diet and exercise.
Manage blood sugar levels with hypoglycemic medications and/or insulin.

57. Depression & Sexual Health
CATCH 22
Treatment of depression may help to improve libido and sexual dysfunctions such as orgasmic disorders.
However, medications to treat depression, often impact sexual function by lowering libido and causing orgasmic disorders.
(boo Pro pee on)
Level II
Seidman, S. N., & Roose, S. P. (2006). The sexual effects of testosterone replacement in depressed men: Randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy, 32(3),
Wellbutrin – no sexual side effect and may have a pro-sexual response effect
bupropion – “found to have no sexual side effect and may have a pro-sexual response effect” (McNicoll, 2008)
(brand names: Aplenzin, Budeprion, Buproban, Forfivo XL, Wellbutrin, Zyban)*
*Speaker does not recommend any specific medication

58. Cancer and Sexual Health
The experience of breast, prostate and other reproductive system cancers mandates a program of individual &/or group support to resolve self image issues r/t bodily changes that impact sexuality.

59. Environmental Management
Environmental adaptations to ensure privacy and safety among LTC and community dwelling residents is essential.
Arrangements for privacy must be made so the dignity of older adults is protected during sexual activity.
Call lights or telephones should be kept within reach during sexual activity and adaptive equipment such as hospital beds, side rails, or trapeze bars may need to be obtained.
Privacy and safe environment for masturbation in cognitively impaired older adults or those without partners.
Develop a sexual “tool kit”
Individual tubes of lubricants
Condoms
Erotic materials (movies, magazines).

60. Summary
Older adults have continuing sexual needs and interests that persist throughout the lifespan.
There are barriers and challenges to sexual health in the aging population including: 1) normal aging changes, 2) disease processes, 3) medications and 4) environment.
It is necessary to conduct a sexual health assessment on ALL older adults and develop plans of care to manage sexual health needs.

61. Web Links
Hartford Institute for Geriatric Nursing/ ConsultgeriRN.org Sexuality Issues in Aging.
MedlinePlus
American Foundation for Urological Disease, Inc
World Health Organization (2004). Sexual Health- A New Focus for WHO. Progress in Reproductive Health Research,
American Association of Older Persons. Great Sex Well After 50.
Society for the Scientific Study of Sexuality.

62. References References with Levels of Evidence provided as a handout
Taken from GNEC resources
Level IV Addis, I. B., Ireland, C. C., Vittinghoff, E., Lin, F., Stuenkel, C. A., & Hulley, S. (2005). Sexual activity and function in postmenopausal women with heart disease. Obstetrics and Gynecology, 106(1),
Level IV Annon, J. (1976). The PLISSIT model: A proposed conceptual scheme for the behavioral treatment for sexual problems. Journal of Sex Education Therapy, 2(2), 1-15.
 Level IV Araujo, A. B., Mohr, B. A., & McKinlay, J. B. (2004). Changes in sexual function in middle-aged and older men: Longitudinal data from the Massachusetts male aging study. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, 52(9),
 Level II Barton, D. L., Wender, D. B., Sloan, J. A., Dalton, R. J., Balcueva, E. P., Atherton, P. J. et al. (2007). Randomized controlled trial to evaluate transdermal testosterone in female cancer survivors with decreased libido; north central cancer treatment group protocol N02C3. Journal of the National Cancer Institute, 99(9), 672
Level IV Baumgartner, M. K., Hermanns, T., Cohen, A., Schmid, D. M., Seifert, B., Sulser, T. et al. (2008). Patients' knowledge about risk factors for erectile dysfunction is poor. J.Sex.Med., 5(10),
Level V Black, B., Muralee, S., & Tampi, R. T. (2005). Inappropriate sexual behaviors in dementia. Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry & Neurology, 18(3),
Level IV Bohm, M., Baumhakel, M., Probstfield, J. L., Schmieder, R., Yusuf, S., Zhao, F. et al. (2007). Sexual function, satisfaction, and association of erectile dysfunction with cardiovascular disease and risk factors in cardiovascular high-risk patients: Substudy of the ONgoing telmisartan alone and in combination with ramipril global endpoint Trial/Telmisartan randomized AssessmeNT study in ACE-INtolerant subjects with cardiovascular disease (ONTARGET/TRANSCEND). American Heart Journal, 154(1),
Level IV Chitale, S., Collins, R., Hull, S., Smith, E., & Irving, S. (2007). Is the current practice providing an integrated approach to the management of LUTS and ED in primary care? an audit and literature review. J.Sex.Med., 4(6),
Level II Freedman, M., Kaunitz, A. M., Reape, K. Z., Hait, H., & Shu, H. (2009). Twice-weekly synthetic conjugated estrogens vaginal cream for the treatment of vaginal atrophy. Menopause (New York, N.Y.), 16(4),
Level V Johnson, C., Knight, C., & Alderman, N. (2006). Challenges associated with the definition and assessment of inappropriate sexual behavior amongst individuals with an acquired neurological impairment. Brain Injury, 20(7),
Level II Klein, R., Bar-on, E., Klein, J., & Benbenishty, R. (2007). The impact of sexual therapy on patients after cardiac events participating in a cardiac rehabilitation program. Eur.J.Cardiovasc.Prev.Rehabil., 14(5),
Level IV Korfage, I. J., Pluijm, S., Roobol, M., Dohle, G. R., Schroder, F. H., & Essink-Bot, M. L. (2009). Erectile dysfunction and mental health in a general population of older men. J.Sex.Med., 6(2),
Level II Lamina, S., Okoye, C. G., & Dagogo, T. T. (2009). Therapeutic effect of an interval exercise training program in the management of erectile dysfunction in hypertensive patients. Journal of Clinical Hypertension (Greenwich, Conn.), 11(3),
Level IV Lemieux, L., CohenSchneider, R., & Holzapfel, S. (2001). Aphasia and sexuality. Sexuality and Disability, 19(4),
Level IV Lindau, S.T., Schumm, L.P., Laumann, E.O., Levinson, W., O’Muircheartaigh, C.A., & Waite, L.J. (2007). A study of sexuality and health among older adults in the United States, The New England Journal of Medicine, 357,
Level IV Magalhaes, M. G., Greenberg, B., Hansen, H., & Glick, M. (2007). Comorbidities in older patients with HIV: A retrospective study. The Journal of the American Dental Association, 138(11),
Level I Miles CL, Candy B, Jones L, Williams R, Tookman A, King M. Interventions for sexual dysfunction following treatments for cancer. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2007, Issue 4. Art. No.: CD DOI: / CD pub2.
Level IV Montejo, A. L., Llorca, G., Izquierdo, J. A., & Rico-Villademoros, F. (2001). Incidence of sexual dysfunction associated with antidepressant agents: A prospective multicenter study of 1022 outpatients. spanish working group for the study of psychotropic-related sexual dysfunction. The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 62 Suppl 3,
Level IV Mott, S., Kenrick, M., Dixon, M., & Bird, G. (2005). Sexual limitations in people living with parkinson's disease. Australasian Journal on Ageing, 24(4),
Level IV Nagaratnam, N., & Gayagay, G. (2002). Hypersexuality in nursing care facilities—a descriptive study. Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics, 35(3),
Level II Quintard, B., & Lakdja, F. (2008). Assessing the effect of beauty treatments on psychological distress, body image, and coping: A longitudinal study of patients undergoing surgical procedures for breast cancer. Psycho-Oncology, 17(10),
Level V: Rosen, R. C. (2006). Assessment of sexual dysfunction in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia. BJU International, 97 Suppl 2, 29-33; discussion 44-5.
Level II Rosen, R. C., Wing, R. R., Schneider, S., Wadden, T. A., Foster, G. D., West, D. S. et al. (2009). Erectile dysfunction in type 2 diabetic men: Relationship to exercise fitness and cardiovascular risk factors in the look AHEAD trial. J.Sex.Med., 6(5),
Level II Seidman, S. N., & Roose, S. P. (2006). The sexual effects of testosterone replacement in depressed men: Randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy, 32(3),
Level II Shah, P. J., Dinsmore, W., Oakes, R. A., & Hackett, G. (2007). Injection therapy for the treatment of erectile dysfunction: A comparison between alprostadil and a combination of vasoactive intestinal polypeptide and phentolamine mesilate. Current Medical Research and Opinion, 23(10),
Level IV Sherr, L., Harding, R., Lampe, F., Johnson, M., Anderson, J., Zetler, S. et al. (2009). Clinical and behavioral aspects of aging with HIV infection. Psychology, Health & Medicine, 14(3),
Level II Siegel, T., Moul, J. W., Spevak, M., Alvord, W.G., & Costabile, R.A. (2001). The development of erectile dysfunction in men treated for prostate cancer. Journal of Urology, 165,
Level IV Tannenbaum, C., Corcos, J., & Assalian, P. (2006). The relationship between sexual activity and urinary incontinence in older women. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, 54(8),
Level V Wallace, M. (2000). Sexuality and Intimacy. In Textbook of Gerontological Nursing, 2nd Ed. St. Louis: Mosby Year Book, Inc.
Level II Wespes, E., Moncada, I., Schmitt, H., Jungwirth, A., Chan, M., & Varanese, L. (2007). The influence of age on treatment outcomes in men with erectile dysfunction treated with two regimens of tadalafil: Results of the SURE study. BJU International, 99(1),
Level V Wick, J. Y., & Zanni, G. R. (2005). Disinhibition: Clinical challenges in the long-term care facility. The Consultant Pharmacist, 20(12),
Level V Wiseman, S. V., McAuley, J. W., Freidenberg, G. R., & Freidenberg, D. L. (2000). Hypersexuality in patients with dementia: Possible response to cimetidine. Neurology, May(2), 2024.
Level VI World Health Organization (2004). Sexual Health- A New Focus for WHO. Progress in Reproductive Health Research, Retrieved May 10, 2005.
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63. Contact Information:
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eSlide - P AACN Hartford-sponsored Faculty Development

64. Final Acknowledgement for Resources Utilized in Presentation
*Special acknowledgement and thanks to Meredith Wallace PhD, APRN, A/GNP-BC and the Geriatric Nursing Education Consortium (GNEC)
12/18/2006 9:45am
eSlide - P AACN Hartford-sponsored Faculty Development