Palliative Care Professionals’ Perceptions and Communication About Sexual Expression of Older Adults at End of Life: How Biases Compromise Holistic Care

Author:

Wallach Isabelle1ORCID,Keyser-Verreault Amélie1,Beauchamp Julie2,Brisson-Guérin Maude1,Sussman Tamara3ORCID,Durivage Patrick4

Affiliation:

1. Department of Sexology, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montreal , Quebec , Canada

2. Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, Université Laval, Quebec City , Quebec , Canada

3. School of Social Work, McGill University, Montreal , Quebec , Canada

4. Center for Research and Expertise in Social Gerontology, CIUSSS West Central Montreal , Montreal, Quebec , Canada

Abstract

Abstract Background and Objectives The sexuality of older people, which has historically been invisible, is increasingly represented and promoted in the media. However, the sexuality of the oldest older adults showing signs of frailty remains obscure and subject to ageist and ableist biases. Studies on sexual expression at the end of life have shown that sexuality and the need for support related to it remain important for many people. Research Design and Methods This article examines the perceptions and attitudes of professionals regarding the sexuality of older adults in palliative care, based on an exploratory qualitative study. Participants were recruited from several palliative care teams working either in hospital or in home settings in Canada. Results Professionals (n = 16) held two main views of sexuality: broad and holistic or narrow and genital-focused. Perceptions of sexuality in later life were either described as a continuation of or distinct from middle adulthood. No matter what views were held, most professionals did not discuss sexuality with their patients at the end of life. Discussion and Implications The lack of communication about sexuality may be largely due to professional’s ageist, ableist, and heterosexist views regarding the sexuality of this population group. Results confirm the relevance of providing palliative care training about diverse sexual experiences and the importance of supporting older adults at the end of life with respect to their intimate and sexual needs. Such an approach is in line with the holistic vocation of palliative care.

Funder

Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada

Publisher

Oxford University Press (OUP)

Subject

Geriatrics and Gerontology,Gerontology,General Medicine

Reference35 articles.

1. Addressing sexual issues in palliative care: A qualitative study on nurses’ attitudes, roles and experiences;Benoot;Journal of Advanced Nursing,2018

2. Using thematic analysis in psychology;Braun;Qualitative Research in Psychology,2006

3. Sexuality and life-threatening illness: Implications for social work and palliative care;Cagle;Health and Social Work,2009

4. Thematic analysis.;Clarke,2019

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