let’s talk about sex · woman with stroke . good reason to focus on sex “(having sex) is a...
TRANSCRIPT
Let’s talk about sex
NATALIE HAMAM Occupational Therapist
Who am I?
Why am I talking about sex?
“They should have realised I needed help even though I was
making a joke of sex. The professionals should realise that
you have a good reason despite your age for asking about
sex. So the research needs to be directed at getting
professionals to take it seriously, even if a patient seems
over-sexed.”
Woman with stroke
Good reason to focus on sex
“(having sex) is a reminder that there’s still fun and love
and pure pleasure in the world, you know? It’s like
something really special has happened in your day.”
Man with spinal cord injury
Why is talking about sex so difficult?
Haboubi and Lincoln (2003) Views of health professionals on discussing sexual issues with patients Disabil Rehabil 25(6)
Who should deal with sexual issues?
Nurses 55%
Doctors 50%
Psychologists 42%
Occupational Therapists 14%
Physiotherapists 13%
Barriers
Lack of training 79%
Lack of time 67%
Embarrassment 50%
Sex and Aging Changes in desire
Changes in function
Changes in partners
Changes in abilities
Changes in attitudes
Changes in barriers
Reasons people don’t talk
about sex
9
People feel un-equipped to raise the topic
It’s too private to discuss
It can be embarrassing!
Think it might make everything else worse
Other issues seem more pressing
Things not working like they
used to Investigate why!
Understand how things work
Accept changes outside of your control
Appreciate what’s working well
What you focus on grows
http://www.shinesa.org.au/go/information-and-resources/shine-sa-
resources
Books
18
Booklets and factsheets and
handouts
19
General principles for talking
about sex
20
It’s always about more than intercourse
Chose your timing wisely
Ensure privacy regularly
Be yourself! Say things how you say them.
It’s ok if it feels embarassing
Discuss general issues
Don’t push the issue. Raise things and give the other person
time
