STDs are a real concern for older adults and seniors

Despite wanting to avoid the topic, the facts are clear, the senior community is far more sexually active than imagined and they are at great risk. After much research and many conversations on STDs and seniors, one thing that stood out the most was the lack of knowledge and how uncomfortable people felt while discussing the topic. Growing numbers of cases involving STDs in nursing homes and assisted living communities have risen for a variety of reasons, including the use of erectile dysfunction drugs such as Viagra and Cialis, and unproductive sexual activity with one or multiple partners. As such, it is important that we educate ourselves and those who are not aware of the risks in engaging in sexual activity of any kind, especially the youth and older adult and senior population.

The STDs epidemic is not something to ignore—it’s a growing and active problem that needs to be confronted. Proper support and education from family, doctors, and senior homes’ staff could help confront this epidemic. Derrick Y McDaniel’s article “Mr. Eldercare 101” shows that between 2007 and 2011, Chlamydia infections among Americans 65 and over increased by 32 percent, and syphilis by 52 percent.

What are some possible causes?

‡ As people age their immune systems tend to weaken making them more susceptible to contacting ANY disease—including STDs.

‡ Many doctors don’t think to test seniors for STDs as a standard examination protocol.

‡ 2lder people are now using on-line dating and thus are relatively unfamiliar with their partners and their sexual histories

Treatment

STDs can be cured with antibiotics, but untreated cases have severe health consequences. According to the CDC, men, women, and infants are at risk for severe, lifelong health outcomes like chronic pain, severe reproductive health complications, and HIV.