Monday, 18 April 2022

Understanding and Coping with Hypersexuality in Elderly Loved Ones

Everybody knows that memory loss is one of the main symptoms of dementia. However, other unpleasant symptoms are spoken about a lot less frequently – hypersexuality being one of them. Hypersexuality is a common symptom not only in people living with dementia, but in those suffering from Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease too.

Below, we discuss why elderly loved ones who are suffering from these conditions may behave inappropriately in this manner and how to handle these situations if and when they present themselves.

Why is Hypersexuality a Symptom?

The main reason is that a person suffering from these particular diseases inevitably experiences a decline in their learned sexual and social inhibitions due to worsening neurological damage in the brain. It is also important to remember that just because your loved one is old, does not mean that he or she has lost his or her natural sexual desire!

So, what kind of behaviour may ensue as a result of these factors? In their confused state, many may become exhibitionists, make lewd, inappropriate comments or gestures, and even violate another person’s boundaries through groping and the like.

How to Deal with the Behaviour

It is not recommended to scold or show anger when your elderly friend or relative behaves this way. Rather, acknowledge that the behaviour is unacceptable, remove him or her from the situation, and try to redirect his or her focus elsewhere.

If someone else is involved, be sure to apologise to the person affected and explain that your loved one is suffering from dementia, Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s and that their actions are a direct result of the disease.

In instances when this behaviour starts occurring more frequently or becomes difficult to control, there are other solutions to consider. For example, if your elderly father is constantly trying to touch his female live-in companion, it may be time to consider switching to a male caregiver. There are also special clothing options to consider which could make it more difficult for your loved one to continue his or her exhibitionism, particularly in public!

In some cases, it may be possible to speak to a doctor about prescribing medication to aid in reducing the person’s libido. However, it is important to note that this comes with its potential risks and side effects.

Ultimately, it is wise to seek support when trying to solve problems such as this. Speak to a professional, find other people in your area who also have elderly relatives, and join online support groups. It is always comforting to find out that you are not alone!

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