Promoting healthy sexuality: guidelines for early through older adulthood

The purpose of this article is to provide the clinician with practical information to promote the healthy sexuality of one's clients. Much of the current literature related to sexuality is problem-focused; this article focuses on sexuality form a health promotion viewpoint. The development of sexuality is discussed from early through older adulthood, and a set of guidelines for use in the clinical setting is presented. Health care providers are often reluctant to initiate a discussion with a client relating to sexuality. However, in order to follow a holistic approach to health promotion, sexuality must be addressed by the clinician. These guidelines will provide the information needed for initiating a discussion about sexuality with adults.