Geriatr Nurs. 2001 Jan-Feb; 22(1): 24-7; quiz 28.

Hormonal decline in elderly men and male menopause.

Kessenich CR, Cichon MJ.

University of Tampa and the Osteoporosis Testing Center in Tampa, FL, USA.

Much has been written about female menopause, but hormonal decline in men indicative of a similar menopause is a relatively new concept. Hormonal decline in men is a gradual and often occult process. Many men do not experience noticeable symptoms, but those who do usually experience a decline in sexual desire and ability that may be attributed to aging. Some men may hide these symptoms. Hormonal replacements and herbal therapies may be helpful. Nurses must conduct careful histories and physical examinations to elicit disclosure of symptoms of hormonal decline in this population.