STD Awareness Month, observed every April, is a great opportunity to raise awareness about sexually transmitted diseases and their impact on people’s lives, as well as the importance of STD testing and treatment. Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including HIV, can affect people of all ages. Here is some more information on the importance of sexual education in aging adults.
Misconceptions Regarding STDs in Older Adults
According to the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project survey of more than 3,000 people between the ages of 57 and 85, approximately 75% of people between 57 and 64 reported being sexually active. Discussing sex can be difficult, but opening this dialogue can improve the quality of life and health outcomes for older adults.
Studies have shown that many caregivers assume their older adult clients are no longer having sex and are not at risk of contracting HIV or other STDs. Many doctors don’t think to test seniors for STDs as a standard examination protocol.
The Increased Risk Involved With STDs for Older Adults
Providers may not recognize signs and symptoms of STDs in older adults or may attribute symptoms to a different cause, which can delay diagnosis and treatment. This delay not only increases the potential for complications but also increases the risk of transmission to sexual partners. Additionally, STDs can have more of a negative impact on older adults because the immune system declines as people age, making them more susceptible to infectious diseases. This can make it necessary for an older adult to manage multiple diseases at the same time, which can be difficult. In addition, medication management, understanding, affording, and adhering to prescription regimens are added challenges. That is where an in-home caregiver can make a huge difference in our clients’ care.
A Cypress HomeCare Solutions’ in-home caregiver wants to ensure that we help our clients in all aspects of their lives. Safe sex practices need to be addressed with all sexually active patients. We will encourage open communication about sexual health and possible symptoms of STDs. When you’re looking for a dependable Phoenix in-home caregiver, choose the team that can provide your loved one with the all-around care they deserve. Turn to Cypress HomeCare Solutions. Give us a call today for more information.
Posted: March 20th, 2023
