Sexual health and intimacy in the twilight years: a TR perspective

Sexual health and intimacy are essential components of overall health and quality of life (Piatt et al., 2022). Sexuality is considered a fundamental part of the human experience, regardless of age, sex, ability, consent capability, marital status, gender identity and expression, or socioeconomic status (Vancouver Coastal Health, 2021). Sexual health and intimacy among older adults living in long-term care (LTC) is a complex issue experienced by health care practitioners. Sexuality is considered a taboo topic among many staff, residents and families and concerns regarding sexual health practices often remain overlooked and unaddressed. As Therapeutic Recreation Practitioners (TRPs), it is important to discuss the sexual wellness of older adults and recreation therapy best practices based on a holistic and person-centred approaches to care. The research study is a starting point in discussing sexual health in later life, acknowledging sexual needs as an essential component of human nature. The TR community of practitioners are invited to reflect on their attitudes and beliefs toward clients’ sexual expression and behaviour with curiosity and openness, honoring the sexual needs of individuals living in LTC. Additionally, health authorities and healthcare providers have a responsibility in providing staff education and training and developing specific policies and strategies to reduce ageism and ableism in elders’ sexual wellness practices.
Poster submission was sponsored by Dr. Colleen Reid, (Applied Community Studies Department) for course THRT 3710 and was presented at the Coquitlam campus on April 5, 2023, for Student Research Days 2023.