Sexual Disinhibition

Sexual disinhibition or inappropriate sexual behavior may include comments, undressing in public, and touching themselves or others. Some dementias can cause a loss of inhibitions leading to increased sexual behavior. Other reasons this can occur is because the person is lonely, bored, or is misinterpreting social cues. Remember that a person with dementia can still desire sexual attention. 

If your loved one is acting inappropriate:

• Be firm and state boundaries.

• Do not shame or scold them.

• Address them by name and do not use terms of endearment such as “honey” or “sweetie.”

• If the behavior occurs while providing personal care, give them a favorite object to hold. 

• Encourage paid caregivers to dress professionally 

• If your loved one is touching themselves in public, direct them to a private space.