How To Address Inappropriate Sexual Behaviors in Dementia?

Some people living with dementia may exhibit inappropriate sexual conduct in public. These behaviors can add another layer of stress for family caregivers. Understanding the reasons behind these misdemeanors and learning how to manage them can make caregiving less stressful. Explore the “why” behind these behaviors and learn practical strategies to handle hypersexuality in dementia with compassion and care.

The Link Between Sexual Behavior and Dementia Disease

Dementia symptoms manifest in many ways. Sometimes, they lead to changes in sexual behavior that are confusing or upsetting for both the patient and their caregivers. Remember that these behaviors aren’t intentional and often stem from the disease’s impact on the brain.

Here’s a breakdown of why these changes might occur:

• Brain dysfunction : Dementia disrupts brain functions, including judgment and impulse control. It can lead to disinhibition, where the person expresses thoughts and desires in ways they wouldn’t normally do.
• Misinterpretations: The person with dementia might misinterpret social cues or forget public norms. For example, a friendly touch from a caregiver could be misconstrued as something more intimate.
• Unmet needs: Sometimes, these behaviors are a way to communicate unmet emotional needs. Your loved one may be feeling lonely or anxious. They may also be simply seeking comfort and affection, which they struggle to express clearly.

Now that you know someone with dementia may misbehave because of the brain changes caused by the disease, you can approach them with more empathy, patience and understanding.

What Is Hypersexuality in Dementia?

Hypersexuality refers to an increase in sexual urges, behaviors, or thoughts. The symptoms manifest in various ways, from increased sexual talk to inappropriate touching. It’s distressing for both the person experiencing it and those around them. While not everyone with dementia experiences it, it’s a recognized phenomenon that can be a source of stress for family members.

These embarrassing behaviors are difficult to manage. However, recognizing that they stem from the disease — and not the individual’s true character — is the first step towards handling them effectively.

Here are some examples of hypersexual behavior in dementia patients:

1. Increased interest in sexual topics

The person may frequently bring up sexual subjects in conversation or ask sexually suggestive questions.

2. Inappropriate physical behavior

It can include public displays of affection, masturbation, or making sexual advances towards others.

3. Changes in language

The person may start using sexual language they wouldn’t have used before.

4. Inappropriate viewing of pornographic material

They may seek out or view explicit content at inappropriate times or places.

5. Unwanted sexual advances

They may make unsolicited and inappropriate advances toward others, including caregivers, family members, or strangers.

6. Sexual aggression

They may display aggressive sexual misconduct, such as forcefully hugging or kissing someone.

Strategies for Managing Challenging Sexual Behaviors

Based on a study, hypersexual behavior happens in 17% of out-patients with dementia and 8% of in-patients. By learning how to identify triggers and setting clear boundaries, you can create a more supportive environment for your loved one. Here are some practical approaches to consider when dealing with inappropriate sexual behaviors.

Stay Calm and Compassionate

When they start to act inappropriately, you must stay calm. Reacting with anger or disgust can escalate the situation and cause further distress. Instead, approach the person with understanding and compassion, recognizing they aren’t acting out of malice but rather due to their illness.

Identify Triggers

Understanding what provokes these sexually inappropriate behaviors can help you manage the situation. Keep a journal of when and where these incidents occur to identify patterns. Common triggers can include:

• Environmental factors: Certain settings or situations may prompt these behaviors.
• Medications: Some medications have side effects that affect sexual behavior.
• Physical discomfort: Discomfort or pain might lead to misdemeanors as a means of communication.

If you minimize the triggers, you can also reduce the frequency of sexual wrongdoings.

Redirect Attention

When it happens, gently redirect the person’s attention to a different activity. Engage them in a hobby or task they enjoy to distract them from their urges and provide a more appropriate outlet for their energy. For example, if your loved one enjoys gardening, suggest they help with some planting as a means of positive distraction.

Set Clear Boundaries

It’s important to set and maintain a clear line. Explain to your loved one what behaviors are improper, using simple and direct language. Be consistent with these boundaries. To reinforce these limits, enumerate them regularly as a form of reminder.

Create a Safe Environment

Adjust the living space to promote a safe environment, minimize triggers and create private areas where the person can retreat if they feel the need to disrobe. Simple changes, such as ensuring bathroom doors can be locked for privacy can make a significant difference in managing hypersexual behavior in dementia patients.

Practical Tips for Caregivers

Here are some additional tips for caregivers to deal with symptoms involving sexual misconduct.

• Dress for success: Ensure your loved one is dressed in clothing that’s difficult to remove. Overalls or clothing with back zippers can be useful in preventing disrobing.
• Monitor media consumption: Limit the media content your loved one is exposed to. Some movies, television shows, or internet content may inadvertently trigger inappropriate sexual behaviors.
• Maintain a routine: Establish and maintain a consistent daily routine to provide a sense of stability and reduce anxiety, which may help in managing hypersexual behavior.
• Use distraction techniques: Keep a list of activities your loved one enjoys and use these as distractions when they exhibit sexually inappropriate behaviors. Activities like

Seek Professional Help

Sometimes, you may need to enlist professional help to keep these symptoms under wraps and better understand the circumstances. Seek people who can you with the following:

Medical Evaluation

A thorough medical assessment can help identify the underlying causes of hypersexual behavior in dementia patients. It may be linked to medications or other health issues. A doctor can help adjust drug dosage to minimize the symptoms’ occurrence.

Therapy and Counseling

Counseling can be beneficial both for the patient and their caregivers. A therapist can offer strategies for managing symptoms and coping with the emotional toll they leave.

Support Groups

Join a support group for caregivers. Sharing experiences with others who understand your challenges can provide comfort and remind you that you’re not alone.

Brain Decline Causes Hypersexuality in Dementia Patients

Yes, dealing with sexual misbehavior can be very challenging. However, these are caused by the disease and not a reflection of the person’s character. By staying calm, identifying triggers, redirecting attention, and setting clear boundaries, you can manage these behaviors with compassion and dignity.

Don’t hesitate to seek professional help and support to avoid burnout. Senex Memory Advisors have certified dementia professionals you can reach out to if you need guidance on memory care, self-education and choosing an assisted living facility for a loved one. We’ll be honored to help you in every way we can.

Syed Rizvi

Syed has years of experience dealing with people, understanding their needs, and helping them find solutions to their problems.
As a Certified Senior Advisor (CSA), Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP), Certified Montessori Dementia Care Professional (CMDCP), Syed is committed to working closely with Senior and their family knowing what is it like for individuals facing a challenging time, at times groping in dark trying to figure what is the appropriate next step or care level for their unique situation.
Syed and Senex Memory Advisors are fully committed to working closely with families in creating a personalized, step-by-step process memory care plan at zero cost.