Sexually inappropriate behavior is a common part of dementia. It’s unfortunately very easy for someone to do something they wouldn’t normally do, like touch someone inappropriately, or make sexually explicit comments. In this article, we’ll go over how senior memory care near Clinton, MS handle these instances and what you can do if you have concerns about your loved one’s safety in their current living situation.
What is Inappropriate Sexual Behavior?
What do you think is sexually inappropriate behavior? The answer may depend on who you ask. For example, someone may be offended by a sexual joke, but not feel uncomfortable if their partner brushes against them in public. The first step in understanding what constitutes as sexually inappropriate behavior is defining what makes something inappropriate. In this case, we’ll use the definition provided by the Alzheimer’s Association: “Inappropriate sexual behavior ranges from suggestive comments to unwanted physical contact.”
In some cases, people with dementia might make mildly inappropriate comments about sex or sexual activity. For example, they could make remarks about their own bodies or those of others. They might also use words like “sex” when describing something that isn’t related to sex at all. Some people exhibit more severe forms of sexually explicit conduct: making explicit sexual gestures toward other individuals without consent, touching private body parts without consent, engaging in sexual acts.
How do I Explain My Loved One’s Behavior to Others?
The first thing you can do is explain that your loved one has dementia and cannot control their behavior. While it’s natural to feel embarrassed or ashamed of how your loved one acts, remember this is a problem for them and everyone else. Educate others about how dementia affects memory and executive functioning, which might help them understand why inappropriate behavior happens so often in people with Alzheimer’s disease, or another form of dementia. Explain the boundaries in a way that they can understand and remember. It’s also important to explain the boundaries with respect and compassion, so your loved one feels safe while at home.
What can I Expect From a Memory Care Community?
What exactly can you expect from a memory care community? In short, a lot. A memory care community is designed to provide the best possible environment for people with dementia and their families. Most offer group activities that promote socialization, as well as one-on-one care for individuals who require more attention. They also have special programs for Alzheimer’s disease patients. Memory care communities are staffed by professionals trained specifically in dementia care, including nurses and other medical professionals who can help monitor your loved one’s health and needs on an ongoing basis. Team members will work closely with you to make sure everything is going smoothly at home, so you don’t have to worry about it while you’re away at work, or when someone else might be there instead of yourself!
In some cases where sexual behavior is more problematic than others, it might make sense for caregivers who work on-site at dementia care communities to be specifically trained in how to handle these situations professionally; and understand how sensitively they should approach them without making anyone feel uncomfortable or embarrassed unnecessarily.
Conclusion
I hope this helps you understand how memory care communities handle sexually inappropriate behavior in someone with dementia. It’s important to approach the topic with sensitivity and care while being honest about why certain behaviors are problematic.
