Sexuality and Intimacy (for Family Care Partners) 

Since dementia results in a wide variety of brain changes, the ability to be intimate with others and expressions of sexuality are typically impacted and affected at multiple points throughout progression. Unfortunately, many changes in behavior are viewed by some as “inappropriate sexual advances” or “misbehavior”. Sorting through the basic changes that relate to social behaviors, dis-inhibition, sensory processing and alterations, as well as cognitive abilities will foster a more helpful and healthy approach to coping with multiple issues that occur when someone is living with dementia.

Objectives:

1. Review some common concerns and scenarios that happen related to sexuality and intimacy and dementia.
2. Compare possible alternative explanations for behaviors compared to labelling them as “sexually inappropriate” or “sexually aggressive”
   
3. Discuss various approaches and strategies to foster healthy and helpful expressions of affection, relationships, and sensory preferences and needs