Atuação do enfermeiro na promoção de uma sexualidade saudável e responsável na terceira idade

Abstract

The aging of the population is a global reality, as well as in developed nations as in developing countries such as in Brazil. Because of this new challenges and demands occurred by growth of the elderly population have stimulated researchers to enhance the study of their peculiarities. With technological advances in health, reduction in birth rates, fertility, advances in improving education, urbanization and sanitation, people come to the third age in satisfactory physical condition and willingness to live the sexuality, condition that refers to the need for debate on the sexuality of the elderly. Thus, this study aims to describe the context in which sexuality in old age and its relationship with the professional nurse. It is a research literature review conducted from August 2010 to July 2011, through books and scientific articles published during the period from 1990 to 2011 (21 years). The conclusion is that the nurse must act providing full assistance and comprehensive care to each of the elderly, especially when it refers to sexual health, contributing to healthy aging and improving the quality of life for seniors.