Residents’ sexual needs an issue for nursing homes

Sex is one of those topics which seems to be a taboo among many people. Along with food appetite, sleep appetite, thirst appetite, etc., we all have a sexual appetite regardless of whether it is discussed or acted upon. Age is no barrier to any appetite, regardless of old wives’ tales and myths. Unfortunately, the sexual appetites of individuals with dementia are not addressed regardless of where he/she resides.

Sexual activity in any facility or institution has been and continues to be problematic for many patients and administrators alike. Long term health facilities such as state hospitals, facilities for the developmentally disabled, prison, jails and nursing homes are all places where sexual activity abounds but people either don’t think about it or don’t want to think about it.

I came across this article today which is very timely and something we cannot ignore. I’m glad this is being addressed. I highly suspect this will continue to surface as our population continues to live longer.

Here is the link: Residents’ sexual needs an issue for nursing homes

Post Christmas Shopping and Pam’s Pain Specialist

Well I had a good time shopping yesterday. I learned several things though. I understand more and more why the experts say to keep the demented individual in familiar and comfortable surroundings.

When I am home, I don’t usually sense many gait problems. Pam and Chad have learned to deal with my word finding problems. Sometimes, I find myself making up words as a substitute for the right word. And they usually fill in the blanks and don’t even mention it to me.

But yesterday, Pam dropped me off at Barnes & Nobles while she had some other errands to do. In the store walking around, it felt as though I were trying to balance on a tight rope. An unusual sensation. I compensated unconsciously by just touching the bookracks, etc.

I also realized the word finding was definitely a problem. I asked several employees to help me find something. I couldn’t think of the right words. Instead, I had to define the words and they came up with the right word. It was embarrassing so I came right out and told them I suffered from Lewy Body Dementia. They were extremely kind and understanding. But, more importantly, it was a great way of educating other people about the disease. So, it was a great way of turning an embarrassing negative event into a positive one for all of us.

I went with Pam to her pain specialist today. She suffers from chronic neck, shoulder and back pain. Today she received some injections. Hopefully this will help for a couple of months in addition to all the other meds she takes for the pain.

On one of these quiet days, I’ll start writing about illusions, delusions and hallucinations. I think you’ll find it rather fascinating!

Warmly………..David