Do you talk to your older patients about sexual health? Health practitioners’ knowledge of, and attitudes towards, management of sexual health among older Australians

Abstract

Research suggests that older patients want to talk about sexual health, but are reluctant to initiate these discussions with health practitioners. Little is known of the practitioners’ perspectives. The objective of this study was to explore health practitioners’ knowledge of and attitudes towards management of sexual health among older patients. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 general practitioners (GPs) and six practice nurses in rural/metropolitan general practices in March to June 2017 in Victoria, Australia. Most GPs believed it was appropriate to discuss sexual health with older patients but did not routinely do so. Common barriers included age and gender discordance between GP and patient, complexity of patient comorbidities and patient–doctor relationships. Practice nurses identified the limitations of their role as a barrier, although some nurses initiated discussions during health assessments. Health practitioners generally believed the responsibility for initiation of sexual health discussions rested with patients, but understood patients’ reluctance. They saw the need for an intervention to assist in such discussions.