Improving Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Awareness Among Adults 50 and Older

Sexual risk taking behavior is not limited to the younger populations. With the various improvements made in heath care, people are living longer and healthier lives, and sexual expression has become an integral portion of an older adult's livelihood. However, due to a variety of factors, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are on the rise in the older adult population. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) (2013) indicates that incidence rates have doubled in adults older than 50 in the last decade and is proving to be a significant public health concern (Poynten, Grulich, & Templeton, 2013). This project was executed with the completion of the four following objectives: 1. Design an educational handout about STIs for use among older adults. 2. Design a self risk-assessment tool for use for older adults in a primary care setting. 3. Pilot the educational handout and risk assessment tool in a primary care setting. 4. Disseminate finalized material and findings to a wider audience. The most significant factor associated with the rise of STIs among the older adults is a lack of education regarding sexual health. Public schools in California outlawed sexual education during the 1960's and it became a taboo topic of discussion (Hunt, 2010). Lastly, most prevention and sexual health promotion programs do not include adults in this age range. As members of this growing population become increasingly able to engage in sexual activity as they age, they may not be equipped with the knowledge or resources to do so safely. Due to the limited research regarding elder sexual health, many providers wrongly assume that older adults are no longer sexually active, and therefore do not address sexual behaviors and safety during routine health visits unless they present with a specific complaint (Hunt, 2010). A delay in accessing STI screening and treatment can lead to further complications of the infection and continued transmission of infection to new sexual partners (Bodley-Tickell et al., 2008). By implementing an age-specific, evidence-based sexual health education program for this population, the hope is that patients will have more knowledge about sexual health and can feel empowered to initiate a conversation about any sexual concerns with their provider. STI transmission may ultimately be prevented, screening and treatment may be offered when needed, and both patients and providers may feel more comfortable discussing this sensitive topic. Implementation of this project was conducted in multiple Family Practice clinics throughout Southern California. The target goal was 500 patients. Front desk staff was trained to administer the handout to all adults over the age of 50. This project was evaluated by conducting a descriptive analysis of the results of the data from an opinion-based provider survey. In summary, the goal of this project was to ultimately improve the sexual health of older adults in Southern California. This project aimed to reduce barriers of care, improve communication between the older adult and their providers, and spread awareness about the sexual health needs of older adults.