The Impact of Assistive Equipment on Intimacy and Sexual Expression

Abstract

Introduction:Sexuality is a holistic concept that involves more than the sexual act. Despite being a quality of life domain that promotes meaningful existence, it is an aspect of life that is often avoided by health care practitioners.Method:In this Heideggerian phenomenological study, conversational interviews were conducted with 13 people with motor neurone disease, and 10 of their partners, in order to understand their experiences of sexuality and intimacy.Findings:The findings provide evidence for the value of touch in people's lives and shed light upon the impact that assistive equipment has on intimacy, sexual expression and maintaining emotional and physical connection between couples. None of the people interviewed had previously been given the opportunity to discuss these issues with their occupational therapist.Conclusion:There is a place in occupational therapy practice for discussing the value of emotional and physical connection for individuals in the context of any equipment provided.