Occupational therapies role in addressing sexuality and intimacy for patients with neurological conditions
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Sexuality and intimacy are regarded as occupations associated with activities of daily living, health management, and social participation, according to the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework (2020). However, these occupations are often overlooked in the context of physical rehabilitation for a myriad of reasons. Occupational Therapy has a unique role in this setting that lends itself to addressing these areas to allow for patients with neurological conditions to participate in life roles and routines associated with sexuality and intimacy. In the context of this project, patients with neurological conditions includes Spinal Cord Injury, Traumatic Brain Injury, and stroke. These patients have many complex client factors (physical and cognitive) that can impact all aspects of sexuality and intimacy which often leave many questions and concerns for patients and/or partners. Addressing these questions and concerns can help occupational therapy provide holistic and individualized care. This quality improvement initiative focuses on clinical practice skills, as well as opportunities for education and policy and program development, when addressing sexuality and intimacy. Using Occupational Therapy Practice Framework (OTPF), Occupational Therapy Sexual Assessment Framework (OTSAF), and Occupational Performance Inventory of Sexuality and Intimacy (OPISI), the project objectives were developed. The project objectives include identifying the perceptions and barriers for addressing sexuality and intimacy, implementing the OPISI with patients with neurological conditions, and developing tools to help guide occupational therapist in the discussion and education. These objectives were accomplished to allow occupational therapist to feel more comfortable and confident when addressing sexuality and intimacy in everyday practice.
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