When the topic of long-term care sexual intimacy regarding people who have dementia arises, family members, loved ones, and staff have varied views. While research is limited on the best ways these residents can express themselves sexually within guidelines respectful of others, this particular study investigated this issue.
Through interviews, this dementia long-term care sexual intimacy research
explored the views of relatives and care workers of new relationships or sexual intimacy between care home residents with dementia who were still married to other people. The following themes emerged:
1) The views of care home staff and relatives had similarities in general terms regarding the problems arising around expressions of sexuality in care homes.
2) A light-hearted or non-physical connection between residents is deemed acceptable. The moment it becomes a sexual relationship, decision-making becomes more complicated.
3) Staff were inclined to turn to managers for advice and to consider separating residents. They expressed familiarity with distracting residents from situations that were of concern.
4) Relatives were considerate of the difficulties and dilemmas faced by care home staff.
Older adults with dementia can and do express sexual intimacy that is appropriate. Mutual consent is an important factor. However, sometimes sexual behaviors can be inappropriate. Dr. David Conn explains in this video some causes of inappropriate sexual behavior and how these behaviors can be addressed by caregivers and family members:
Frances Shani Parker, Author
Becoming Dead Right: A Hospice Volunteer in Urban Nursing Homes is available in paperback and e-book editions in America and other countries at online and offline booksellers.
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