How to Determine if Sexual Activity + Dementia = Yes or No

How to Determine if Sexual Activity + Dementia = Yes or No By Esther Heerema, MSW That equation listed in the title is often not an easy one to solve. Does a dementia diagnosis mean that you lose the right to participate in sexual activities? How do you protect someone who has Alzheimer's from being exploited by others around her? Does the family have the right to allow or prohibit intimate relationships in dementia?  Can People with Dementia Consent to Sexual Activity?  If two people- one, or both, of whom have dementia- indicate interest in pursuing a sexual relationship with each other, what questions should be asked? While there's not a comprehensive list that has been agreed upon by experts, here are questions that may help in this decision.   READ NOW Coping and Living Well After a Diagnosis of Dementia  Although adjusting to a life-changing diagnosis such as Alzheimer's can be very difficult, it's important to know that there are things you can do to make a difference in how you experience and cope with this health challenge.     READ NOW 8 Reasons Why Meaningful Activities Matter in Dementia  Meaningful activities- those that engage the person's attention and connect with their interests- are critical in the provision of care for those with dementia. Consider the following eight reasons why it’s important to offer a variety of meaningful activities for people living with dementia.  READ NOW 6 Easy Ways to Improve Your Memory and Recall  Wish you had a better memory? The desire for an improved memory is a common one; fortunately, there are some simple techniques you can use to accomplish this goal.    READ NOW The Dangers of Physical Restraints in Dementia  Because dementia can trigger some challenging behaviors such as aggression and catastrophic reactions, restraints have been used at times in the past to help prevent injuries to that person or others around them. Fortunately, this has changed in facilities.    READ NOW Dementia and End of Life Decisions: Full Code or Not, and Why?  If your loved one is admitted into a hospital or nursing home, you'll likely need to complete paperwork on what kind of medical care you want him to receive. Among those decisions, you will be asked about code status. In other words, do you want CPR or not?   READ NOW Advertisement READ THESE NEXT Should Your Kids Decide What Summer Camp They Attend? Build Agility, Power and Endurance with Shuttle Runs What are the Side Effects of Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Treatments? What You Should Know About Smoker's Cough Review of the Quell - Wearable Pain Relief AN ABOUT.COM BRAND You are receiving this newsletter because you subscribed to the Alzheimer's & Dementia newsletter. If you wish to unsubscribe, please click here 1500 Broadway, 6th Floor, New York, NY, 10036 © 2016 Verywell.com - All rights reserved. Privacy Policy.