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Sexuality in Older Adults Reflection

What were the key takeaway points from the guest lecture today? Describe two occupational therapy interventions based on the topic. Each intervention should address a different type of client: individual (1:1), group, or population.

 Key Takeaways
Our society creates myths that older adults are asexual.  While it is not often talked about, older adults remain sexually active into their later years.  Studies show that organs can relieve pain, reduce stress, improve sleep, boost immune system and cognitive functioning, as well as increase life span.  Knowing this, sex has a direct impact on older adult clients.  Today we gained an understanding of the fundamental differences between approaches to sexual interactions based on biological gender.    Sex is an occupation and therefore is covered in the occupational therapy scope of practice.  It is important for us to be educated on this topic in order to educate future clients who are experiencing sexual concerns or dysfunctions. We discussed physical pathology and medications that can make sexual responses more difficult.  A couple examples would be arthritis causing pain during sexual acts or antihistamines impacting lubrication.  Typically, clients will not initiate a conversation regarding sex due to fear or embarrassment, so it is our responsibility to bring it up if we suspect the core issue is interfering with sexual encounters.  I learned a lot of fundamental knowledge regarding sexual health, and feel a little more confident sharing this knowledge with clients in the future.  As practitioners, it is important we welcome these conversations and let our clients feel comfortable sharing the challenges and concerns they are experiencing.

Individual Intervention 
If I had a client who uses a wheelchair for mobility came to me with concerns on positioning during sexual encounters, I would recommend a liberator ramp. This ergonomic design supports a variety of comfortable, stable positions as well as relieves pressure from knees, back, and wrists.

Group Intervention
A quote from today’s lecture that impacted me was, “The mind is your most important sex organ.”  This is very true and an important concept to relay to future clients who are dealing with self-esteem or confidence issues that are interfering with sex.  A CBT-driven group session focused on body-image could greatly improve the sex life of older adults experiencing insecurities that are interfering with their sexuality. This session would involve education on how our thoughts can effect our sexual participation and how not participating in sexual encounters, in turn, can effect relationships.

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