CONCURRENT WORKSHOP 2

Sexuality and Intimacy in Long Term Care Settings

(Care and Services)

Sexuality is an integral part of every person and long term care residents don’t check theirs at the door. It’s critical that homes respect their residents’ right to privacy, appreciate their individuality, diversity in sexual orientation and gender identity. But what are the best ways to do this?

Find out in this thought-provoking discussion that will include legal and care issues related to sexuality and intimacy in long term care settings. Learn more about policy implementation and the duty of homes to keep residents safe from sexual exploitation, abuse and assault. The session will also highlight practices that foster quality of life for residents regardless of their sexual needs and preferences. Prepare to share your issues and approaches to handling this often sensitive issue.

Objectives:

• Explore the context of sexuality and intimacy in long term care settings.

• Recognize the legal issues that need to be considered in responding to the sexuality and intimacy needs of residents.

• Identify risks associated with addressing resident sexuality and intimacy needs and learn practical approaches for respecting resident needs while avoiding exploitation and risk to the residents’ well being.

Judith A. Wahl is executive director of the Advocacy Centre for the Elderly and is a sessional lecturer at the Law and Aging Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto.

Deb Jenkins, RN, BScN, MN(C), has over 32 years of nursing experience and is one of three principal writers of the Sexuality and Intimacy Best Practice Guideline in Lanark, Leeds and Grenville counties in the Champlain LHIN.

Debora Steele, RN, BScN, CPMHN(C), GNC(C), is a psychogeriatric resource consultant in Lanark, Leeds and Grenville counties.

Ontario Association of Non-Profit Homes & Services for Seniors
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