Advocating for a Resident’s Right to Intimacy and Sexual Expression

Intimacy and sexual expression are basic human rights and are needed throughout our lifespan. Aging does not mean a loss of sexual intimacy, but when an older adult is cognitively impaired, it can be difficult to determine if they are engaged in a healthy sexual relationship. The right to freedom of sexual expression among these populations has proven a sensitive and sometimes controversial topic, particularly when cognitive capacity is in question. By federal law, individuals residing in long-term care are afforded multiple rights, many of which are relevant to sexuality, such as privacy, confidentiality, the right to make independent choices, and the right to choose visitors and meet in a private location. In this episode, we are joined by Patty Ducayet, Texas State Long-Term Care Ombudsman, to explore the complex issues surrounding the ability to consent to sexual activity among long-term care residents and supporting a resident’s right to intimacy and sexual expression.