Here’s a complete guide to STD testing from STDTesting.org. There is useful information there for anyone of any age and here’s a list of Free STD Testing Locations and Resources in Portland, Oregon.
No one wants to think of their parents, much less their grandparents, getting frisky. No matter what we like to think, sex is a normal part of an active lifestyle among consenting adults; including the elderly. Unfortunately, along with sexual intercourse comes sexually transmitted disease. Seniors are just as likely, if not more likely, than young adults to contract STDs. Here’s why:
1.Contraceptives
Seniors are less likely than younger people to use contraceptives like condoms. As people age, especially women, there is less risk of getting pregnant. Because of this lowered concern of pregnancy, the elderly rarely stop to think about the use of condoms or the need for safe sex. Like young adults, having intercourse without contraception is a risky behavior that can lead to becoming infected with sexually transmitted diseases.
2.Thinning Skin
As we age, our skin naturally thins over all parts of our body. For women, this includes the skin along the vaginal wall. During intercourse, elderly women are more likely to receive small tears to the lining of the vagina. These tears increase the chance of microbe transmission and, as a result, can mean becoming infected with an STD. For some elderly women, the use of a vaginal lubricant or a lubricated condom can prevent this tearing by providing a type of moisture barrier between the penis and the vaginal wall.
3.Immune System Changes
Most of us know that our immune systems become weaker the older that we get. Age-related changes to the immune system can mean that the elderly are not as able to fight off infections, including STDs. For some elderly, it also means that the normal immune response which alerts us to the beginning stages of disease may not be present. This is especially dangerous because it indicates that some elderly may contract an STD and be completely unaware, thus spreading it to unsuspecting partners.
4.Ignorance
It may seem rude to speak of our elders in such a manner, but the simple truth of the matter is this: Many seniors are simply ignorant when it comes to the transmission of STDs. STDs, in the minds of the elderly, happen to young people. This lack of awareness can cause seniors to unwittingly spread STDs among each other, especially if they are promiscuous. By taking the time to become more aware of their risk of contracting and spreading STDs, seniors may be able to put a halt to what is quickly becoming a problem among their age group.
5.Lack of Testing
Many STDs can be found through simple blood tests. Though it’s not uncommon for seniors to undergo routine testing, it is uncommon for them to undergo testing for sexually transmitted diseases. Any sexually active senior should be routinely screened for STDs as a part of their annual healthcare routine. By submitting to testing, seniors are more likely to be able to treat any STDs that are present in their early stages.
While it may be slightly comical to think of residents in a nursing home fighting off sexually transmitted diseases, it is no laughing matter. Seniors are less able to deal with these infections thanks to weakened immune systems. Additionally, STDs can exacerbate already present chronic conditions. If you are in a nursing home or have a loved one who is, it’s important to educate yourself with regards to the rising rates of STDs among the elderly population. Doing so may save your life or the life of the one you love.
– John Martin writes articles for several health sites that recommend sexually active people in Nevada use a Las Vegas lab for STD testing.
