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email: library@dementia.org.au

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Dementia Australia resources

Intimacy and sexual issues by Dementia Australia
This Help Sheet discusses intimacy and sexual issues for people with dementia, their families and carers. It describes the importance of these issues in their lives and ways to deal with some of the problems that may arise.
Relationships and dementia by Dementia Australia
Publication Date: 2017
Our intimate and family relationships are complex. Living with dementia increases this complexity, so
relationships need to be reframed and constantly renegotiated as dementia progresses. The dementia
journey is different for everyone and is influenced by a range of factors. Each individual with dementia,
their carer/s and family will experience different challenges as dementia progresses and relationships
change. This is not a linear process; it is unpredictable.

Books

Dementia, Sex and Wellbeing by Danuta Lipinska; Caroline Baker (Foreword by)
Publication Date: 2017
Informed by a combination of accessible neuroscience and person-centred compassion, Danuta Lipinska's new book shows that the human need for intimacy, attachment and sexual expression is as important for supporting the wellbeing and personhood of people with dementia as communication and care.
Embracing Touch in Dementia Care by Luke Tanner; Danuta Lipinska (Foreword by)
Publication Date: 2017
Meaningful touch is an essential part of truly person-centred dementia care, yet its value is often viewed as secondary to its perceived risks. This book restores trust in the power of touch, demonstrating the vital role it plays in supporting personhood, relationships and wellbeing, and challenging the barriers preventing staff from using touch in meaningful ways.
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Ageing by edited by Richard Ward, Ian Rivers and Mike Sutherland
Publication Date: 2012
Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people often face unique challenges as they grow older. It is vital that those providing them with care and support understand their needs, wishes and experiences. This book demonstrates how biographical approaches can increase understanding about the distinct perspectives of older LGBT people, enhancing inclusive care and support.
Neither Married nor Single When Your Partner Has Alzheimer's or Other Dementia by David Kirkpatrick
Publication Date: 2018
Dr. Kirkpatrick tackles the tough questions about caretaking, grief, loss, love, and sex for those whose partners have dementia. When is the right time to find or even to begin considering a care home for your loved one? How can you navigate the complexities of your changing sexual relationship with an Alzheimer's partner? When is it appropriate for you to consider new relationships?
Keeping Love Alive As Memories Fade by Gary D. Chapman; Edward G. Shaw; Deborah Barr
Publication Date: 2016
At its heart, this book is about how love gently lifts a corner of dementia’s dark curtain to cultivate an emotional connection amid memory loss. This collaborative work between a healthcare professional, caregiver, and relationship expert will: provide an overview of the love languages and Alzheimer’s disease; correlate the love languages with the developments of the stages of AD; discuss how both the caregiver and care receiver can apply the love languages; address the challenges and stresses of the caregiver journey; and offer personal stories and case studies about maintaining emotional intimacy amidst AD.

Journal articles and papers

Couples living with Alzheimer’s disease talk about sex and intimacy: A phenomenological qualitative study (2023)
The findings of this study provide a deeper insight into experiences of sexuality for couples living with Alzheimer’s. Sexuality and intimacy of couples living with Alzheimer’s continues to be an important aspect of the relationship, and in general, the partners wish to have the opportunity to express their sexuality. The construction of a sense of couplehood during the marriage tends to be a significant factor to sustain the changes that arise in the intimate relationship because of the diagnosis. However, despite the growing recognition of the existence and importance of sexuality in later life, persons with Alzheimer’s have only recently starting to be recognized as sexual beings who wish to be heard.

Albert SC, Eduardo Martinelli J, Costa Pessoa MS. Couples living with Alzheimer’s disease talk about sex and intimacy: A phenomenological qualitative study. Dementia. 2023;22(2):390-404.

Lindau, S.T., Dale, W., Feldmeth, G., Gavrilova, N., Langa, K.M., Makelarski, J.A. and Wroblewski, K. (2018), Sexuality and Cognitive Status: A U.S. Nationally Representative Study of Home‐Dwelling Older Adults. J Am Geriatr Soc, 66: 1902-1910.
Read online

Bauer, M & Fetherstonhaugh, D (2016), Sexuality and people in residential aged care facilities: A guide for partners and families, La Trobe University, viewed 5 June 2020,
Read online

Barrett, Catherine & Crameri, Pauline & Lambourne, Sally & Latham, J.R.. (2015). ‘We are still gay…’: the needs of LGBT Australians with dementia. Australian Journal of Dementia Care. 4. 26-30.
Read online

Video content

Websites

Conversations About Dementia, Intimacy and Sexuality/ Alzheimer’s Society of Canada (2018)
https://alzheimer.ca/sites/default/files/files/national/brochures-conversations/conversations_intimacy-and-sexuality.pdf

Sex, intimacy and dementia / Alzheimers Society (UK)
https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-support/daily-living/sex-intimacy-dementia

Sexuality and dementia information sheet / Alzheimers Scotland
https://www.alzscot.org/our-work/dementia-support/information-sheets/sexuality-and-dementia

Courses

Intimacy, sexuality and dementia - Dementia Australia workshop
This workshop broadly covers the topic of intimacy as we age, with dementia being a key area of focus. It draws out meaningful and inspirational conversations around some of the stigmas and attitudes around this topic. You will challenge your own views and understanding and come away with strategies to transform your current practice.

Sexualities and Dementia

Dementia Training Australia (DTA) webinar

Sexual expression is a part of life no matter what age we are and therefore older people living with dementia also need to be considered. In an aged care context, this can be a confronting and challenging issue for service providers and health professionals. Responses can be reactive rather than proactive, with many staff not knowing what to do. There are beliefs that older people are asexual, and that sexual needs and behaviour is only for those who are “cognitively intact”. There can also be a lack of regard for non-heterosexual people living with dementia.

Relationships, Intimacy & dementia