A typical case might be a patient aged 55 whose vaginal soreness is leading to a loss of sex drive, and despite waiting to see if it gets better on its own, has found no improvement. In this article we offer some pointers for how to support the sexual wellbeing of older patients, with a focus on the consultation.

GPs too can experience their own barriers to providing help. Patients often need support with their sexual wellbeing as they age, but seeking help for a sexual problem is not always easy: the journey is mired in uncertainty (“can anything be done?”), embarrassment (“the GP is the same age as my daughter”), and fear of being judged negatively because of ageism (“what if they think I’m past it?”).

Mention the potential sexual side effects of drugs during medication reviews or when prescribing new medicationsĪt your age? That is the response many older adults think they might receive after plucking up the courage to ask their GP for help with a sexual issue. Create a culture of openness by using open and inclusive language so that older patients are given permission to discuss sexual issuesĬonsider asking about sexual wellbeing when a patient consults about a chronic condition

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