Sexual Expression and Physical Intimacy for Those Challenged with Serious Illness

Abstract

AbstractSexual expression and physical intimacy may be among the most satisfying parts of a person’s quality of life. Touch as an aspect of comfort, support, and affection is as crucial a human need as food and warmth. The touch continuum describes a progression that begins with the soothing touch enjoyed by infants, advances to more playful touch relished by maturing children, and evolves to the sensual and sexual touch appreciated by adolescents and adults. The centrality of touch in the human experience in all the phases of life demonstrates the importance of sustaining touch during times of illness and disability. The significance of sexual expression and physical intimacy is demonstrated by descriptions of patients and their partners using a counseling paradigm to assist people receiving palliative care who wish for more closeness and romance with their partners. In this way the patients reassert themselves as sexual beings with needs to touch and be touched.