A nurse is educating an older adult client about sexuality and aging.Which of the following information should the nurse include?

The correct answer isA, B, C, and D.

The nurse should consider the older adults’ preferences and interests, cultural and ethnic backgrounds, cognitive and functional abilities, and income and education levels when designing a health promotion program for them.

These factors can affect the older adults’ motivation, participation, adherence, and outcomes of the program.For example, the nurse should tailor the program to match the older adults’ needs, values, beliefs, and expectations; assess their cognitive and functional status and provide appropriate interventions; and consider their financial and educational resources and barriers.

Choice E is wrong because the older adults’ age and gender are not sufficient factors to consider when designing a health promotion program.

Age and gender are not homogeneous categories that determine the health status or behavior of older adults.Rather, they are influenced by multiple biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors that vary among individuals.

Therefore, the nurse should not rely on stereotypes or assumptions based on age and gender alone.

The correct answer isC.

Sexual expression and satisfaction are possible at any age.

This is because sexuality is not only about physical function, but also about feelings, desires, identity, intimacy and connection.Aging does not necessarily diminish these aspects of sexuality, and many older adults enjoy an active and fulfilling sex life.

Choice A is wrong because it assumes that sexual interest and activity decline with age for everyone, which is not true.Some older adults may experience a decrease in sexual desire or frequency due to various factors, such as health conditions, medications, stress, relationship issues or personal preferences, but others may maintain or even increase their sexual interest and activity as they age.

Choice B is wrong because it ignores the fact that aging does bring some physical changes that can affect sexual function and response.

For example, the vagina can become shorter, narrower and less lubricated, which can make vaginal penetration painful or uncomfortable for some women.

Men may experience erectile dysfunction or reduced firmness or size of their erections.These changes do not mean that sex is impossible or undesirable, but they may require some adjustments or alternative ways of expressing sexuality.

Choice D is wrong because it implies that sexual problems and concerns are inevitable with age, which is not true.

While some older adults may face challenges or difficulties in their sexual lives, others may not have any problems or concerns at all.

Moreover, many sexual problems and concerns can be prevented, treated or managed with the help of health care providers, counselors or therapists.Older adults should not accept sexual dissatisfaction as a normal part of aging, but rather seek help and support if they need it.