Living with dementia brings a lot of changes in the sexual behavior of the individual. Whether you notice such changes in your partner or your patients, being equipped with the tools to navigate such a scenario can be incredibly helpful, especially when considering seniors and sexuality.
Common Alterations in Seniors and Sexuality
For instance, you might notice a difference in the person’s sex drive, fluctuating between persistent urges or the complete absence of it. Many times, people with dementia also tend to mistake someone else for their partners. This often leads to the initiation of inappropriate sexual behavior with them.
When faced with such situations, it’s crucial to avoid responding with harsh or loud reactions. This can cause seniors to feel angry, embarrassed, and confused, potentially leading to violent retaliation. Instead, gently reminding them of their identity can help alleviate the behavior, especially when addressing seniors and sexuality.
No matter the setting this is happening in, the person on the receiving end of this does not have to bear with it. However, training to respond appropriately in such instances can make caregiving smoother.
Remember that your safety is the utmost priority, regardless of the patient’s condition.
Recognizing The Purpose
When it comes to dementia or even the geriatric population in general, it would help to remember that despite age or affliction, a natural desire for pleasure is expressed in some way or another.
Understanding the ‘inappropriate’ behavior for the purpose it might be serving could assist in supporting the individuals better. For instance, patients with dementia often start undressing in public or walking around nude. While this is inappropriate behavior, it might not always be sexual.
They were likely experiencing something uncomfortable or the temperature was unsettling. Checking in with them can help you decide your next course of action. Still, it is always recommended to not provide clothes with easily accessible buttons or zippers for people with dementia.
Taking Care of Others
As a caregiver for someone with dementia, you might know their ticks and tendencies better. This can help you prevent additional trouble and pain for the patient.
When older patients tend to engage in socially inappropriate behavior, bringing children and other vulnerable people around should be monitored. While isolating the patient can be cruel, compromising the safety of others is never ideal. If you work together with the family, you can certainly come up with better and safer ways of interaction.
Creating some form of identification for the person with dementia can also prove to be useful. The identification can be a badge or a letter that states their condition and it could diffuse extremely hostile reactions they might receive in certain social settings.
Giving the individual some time and space to experience their urges privately is recommended. Since consent and boundaries blur when dementia comes into the picture, involving other parties needs to be navigated carefully. Moreover, having a team of people to help you manage will make all the difference.
Conclusion
Addressing changes in sexual behavior among seniors with dementia requires sensitivity and proactive strategies, particularly when considering seniors and sexuality. Understanding the underlying needs behind such behavior and prioritizing safety are essential. Collaboration with healthcare professionals and support teams is crucial in developing effective care plans tailored to each individual’s needs. By offering compassionate care and respecting individual dignity, we can enhance the well-being of seniors living with dementia.
Visit our LinkedIn page for the latest updates on our company, including exciting developments and new offerings. Stay informed and connected with us as we continue to grow and provide valuable learning opportunities for professionals in caregiving industries.
