Dr. Sewell's Misconceptions On Sex And Aging

As we age it does not mean that we lose interest in sex but as we grow older our bodies change and we have to adapt our lifestyles and sexual practices to accommodate those changes. Sex and intimacy is important part of a healthy relationship at any age. As Dr. Sewell (2014) pointed out in his video on Sex and Aging there are misconceptions or myths in regards to older adults not enjoying sex or benefitting from intimacy. These misconceptions about older adult’s sexual activities may stem from our societies stereotype of how we view the elderly as individuals who no longer have a desire for sex or physically able to have sex. Dr. Sewell brought up several interesting points in his lecture in regards to sex and the elderly. One topic dealt with the medical community’s discomfort in speaking with elderly patients about their sexual activities which was very surprising. Young physicians may especially feel uncomfortable in speaking with older adults about their sex lives. This discomfort in talking with older adults about sex may be due to young physicians feeling they are discussing sex with someone who reminds him or her of their parents or grandparents. Therefore, it is imperative that young physicians begin to build a comfort level in discussing sex with older patients (Sewell, 2014). …show more content…
Sewell offered guidelines for physicians and practitioners dealing with older clients. Dr. Sewell (2014) suggested that practitioners do not make the assumption that older adults are not interested or lack the desire for sex. When approaching a patient or client one should start slowly and develop a rapport with the patient and be prepared that the topic may make the patient feel uncomfortable during the first few visits. It is important for providers to bring up the subject of sex with their patients as the patient themselves, may feel uncomfortable in bringing up the