Sexuality and aging A trainig program in the field of sexual education for the staff of geriatric homes

G. BRONNER (Tel Aviv)

In spite of changes in attitudes and behaviour many Israelis still regard sexuality in elders as ridiculous or strange, as inappropriate or even immoral. Unfortunately, many professionals specializing in geriatrics share similar attitudes and beliefs. In order to create a more positive approach towards sexuality in elderly and to promote recognition in their rights to remain sexual human beings, a special sex education training was planned. The training was designed for the multi disciplinary teams in nursing homes, geriatric hospitals, shelterd housing and day care centers. 1380 staff menbers participated. Most frequent dilemmas regarding sexual behaviour of elders which staff members had to confront with were : Dealing with sexual expressions in public areas and in privacy, distinguishing between sexual consent and sexual abuse (especially when patients suffer from mental impairment), dealing with resistance of staff of residents and of childern (whose elder parents engage in sexual activity).




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