Question

Mr. Caruthers and Mrs. Duncan are older adults, widowed, and live in separate rooms in an assisted living facility. The nurse aide reports to the nurse that she has just seen the couple kissing and holding hands. The nurse aide then begins to laugh.

A correct nursing action would be which of the following?
A. Instruct the nurse aide that older adults still experience sexual pleasure.
B. Call the administrator and inform her of the couple's action.
C. Tell the nurse aide to confront the couple and tell them to act their age.
D. Laugh with the nurse aide, and tell her that nothing will happen anyway because the couple is old.

Answer 1

The nurse should instruct the nurse aide that older adults continue to experience sexual pleasure. It's important to respect their affectionate behavior and to recognize that sexuality does not end with age. Shaming or laughing at the couple is both inappropriate and disrespectful. the correct option is D. Laugh with the nurse aide, and tell her that nothing will happen anyway because the couple is old.

Step-by-step explanation:

A correct nursing action would be to instruct the nurse aide that older adults still experience sexual pleasure. This is the most professional and respectful response, recognizing the dignity and feelings of the persons involved.

Respecting an individual's sexual rights and needs does not diminish with age. Studies have shown that relationships and affection are important aspects of life regardless of age. The behavior displayed by Mr. Caruthers and Mrs. Duncan is a healthy expression of their affection for each other. It's also crucial to create an environment that respects and safeguards the well-being of older adults, including their right to express affection.

Laughing at or shaming older adults by suggesting they act their age is inappropriate and disrespectful. Raising awareness about ageism and elder abuse is paramount to prevent the mistreatment of seniors in care facilities. It's also significant to differentiate between caregiving and age discrimination, ensuring older adults live with the respect and dignity they deserve.