A nurse is evaluating the effectiveness of interventions to enhance the sexuality of an older adult client.

Which of the following outcomes would indicate that the interventions were successful?

The correct answer isD.

“I don’t need to worry about sexually transmitted infections at my age.” This statement indicates a need for further education because older adults are still at risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs) if they are sexually active and do not use protection.According to the National Institute on Aging, STIs can affect anyone who is sexually active, regardless of age, and some STIs may not have any symptoms.Therefore, older adults should use condoms or other barrier methods to prevent STIs, and get tested regularly if they have multiple partners or a new partner.

Choice A is wrong because it is a correct statement.

“I know that my sexual response may be slower or less intense as I age.” This statement shows that the client has realistic expectations about the normal changes in sexual function that occur with aging.As people age, their bodies change, and their sexual response may take longer or require more stimulation.This does not mean that they cannot enjoy sex or intimacy, but they may need to adapt to these changes and communicate with their partner.

Choice B is wrong because it is not necessarily a sign of a need for education.

“I sometimes feel depressed or anxious about my sexual performance.” This statement reflects the client’s emotional state, which can affect their sexuality and intimacy.Some older adults may feel insecure about their aging bodies, their sexual abilities, or their attractiveness to their partner.

These feelings are normal and understandable, but they can also interfere with sexual satisfaction and intimacy.

The client may benefit from counseling or therapy to address these feelings, but they do not indicate a lack of knowledge about sexuality.

Choice C is wrong because it is a correct statement.

“I use lubricants and different positions to make sex more comfortable.” This statement shows that the client is aware of some strategies to cope with the physical changes that can affect sexual comfort in older adults.For example, vaginal dryness is a common problem for older women, especially after menopause, and it can make sex painful or uncomfortable.Using lubricants can help reduce friction and increase pleasure.Similarly, changing positions can help avoid discomfort or injury caused by arthritis or other conditions that affect mobility or flexibility.

Normal ranges for sexual activity and satisfaction vary widely among older adults, depending on their individual preferences, health status, relationship status, and other factors.

There is no one right way to express sexuality or intimacy in older age, as long as it is safe, consensual, and enjoyable for both partners.

The correct answer is A.

The client reports increased sexual satisfaction and enjoyment.This outcome would indicate that the interventions were successful in enhancing the sexuality of an older adult client, which is the way we experience and express ourselves sexually.Sexuality is often affected by one’s emotional and physical state, and normal aging brings physical changes that can sometimes interfere with the ability to have and enjoy sex.

Therefore, interventions that aim to improve sexual satisfaction and enjoyment are relevant and important for older adults.

Choice B is wrong because increased sexual response and function are not necessarily indicators of enhanced sexuality, as they may not reflect the feelings, desires, actions, and identity of the older adult client.Sexual response and function can also be influenced by physiological factors such as menopause, erectile dysfunction, or chronic health conditions, which may require medical treatment rather than nursing interventions.

Choice C is wrong because increased sexual identity and orientation are not outcomes of interventions to enhance sexuality, but rather aspects of one’s personal and social identity that are usually established earlier in life.

Sexual identity and orientation are not affected by aging or health conditions, and do not need to be improved or changed by nursing interventions.

Choice D is wrong because increased sexual feelings and desires are not sufficient to measure the effectiveness of interventions to enhance sexuality, as they may not translate into sexual satisfaction and enjoyment.Sexual feelings and desires can also vary depending on the context, the partner, the mood, or other factors that are not related to the interventions.

The normal ranges for sexual activity in older adults depend on various factors such as personal preferences, health status, relationship status, availability of partner, social norms, and cultural values.

There is no single or standard definition of what constitutes normal or healthy sexuality for older adults.

However, some general guidelines for promoting sexual health in older adults are:.

• Communicate openly and honestly with your partner about your sexual needs and expectations.

• Use lubricants, pillows, or other aids to make sex more comfortable and enjoyable.

• Explore different ways of expressing intimacy and affection.