Lgbt Elders Research Paper

546 Words3 Pages
Many LGBT Elders are sexually active. Sexual health issues are prevalent amongst LGBT elders, but are rarely discussed with physicians. This is unfortunate because untreated sexual problems can have harmful health effects. Many LGBT elders take medications that can affect their sex lives but communication with physicians remain poor, leaving these issues undiagnosed or untreated. Sexual health issues that are left untreated can contribute to depression and social isolation; including, avoiding intimacy and sex. There is a misconception that elderly person lose interest in sex as they age. Although there is the possibility of some sexual dysfunction due to aging, sexual dysfunction is more associated with poor health than age. Here are three things you can do as an older LGBT person to improve your sexual health: 1.Talk openly about your physical and sexual health issues with your partner (if it applies).…show more content…
Doing so can decrease you and your partner's feelings of shame, inadequacy, and isolation regarding intimacy. These discussions can also open the door to explore new areas of intimacy and sexual play (smile). 2. See your physician regularly and openly discuss your sexual health issues. •Many LGBT elders are reluctant to discuss sexual issues with physicians due to past experiences of discrimination, feeling invisible, or embarrassment. We are living in an evolving society and while there are still challenges, LGBT issues are becoming more and more transparent. However, you must take an active role in your own health care. Choosing to ignore any health issue can lead to greater complications. Taking an active role in your health care can possibly lead to a better, healthier, stress free, sex life (smile)! 3. Talk to a therapist about your
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