Palliative and end of life care (Care homes & care at home)
Sexuality can be defined as “a central aspect of being human throughout life encompasses sex, gender identities and roles, sexual orientation, eroticism, pleasure, intimacy and reproduction. Sexuality is experienced and expressed in thoughts, fantasies, desires, beliefs, attitudes, values, behaviours, practices, roles and relationships. While sexuality can include all of these dimensions, not all of them are always experienced or expressed. Sexuality is influenced by the interaction of biological, psychological, social, economic, political, cultural, legal, historical, religious and spiritual factors.”(WHO 2006)
Key issues to be aware of in caring for people in palliative or end of life situations:
Sexuality influences all parts of one’s life.
Regardless of age or diagnosis, it is important to acknowledge that sexuality may be very important to the client.
Wearing makeup, nail polish, having dentures in are examples of the person being able to express their sexuality.
Consideration must be given to those clients who are in same sex relationships, transgender etc and their beliefs and wishes identified and respected.
Sex and sexual relationships do not always diminish with age.
Having an intimate relationship may become more challenging to clients who are nearing end of life.
Read more at:
Royal College of Nursing: Older People in Care Homes: Sex, Sexuality and Intimate Relationships