Inappropriate Sexual Behaviors

Stroking or exposing genitals in public, or other inappropriate sexual behavior by a loved one with Alzheimer's may be caused by the physical damage to the part of your loved one's brain that allows him or her to recognize acceptable social behaviors.

Here are a few suggestions you can try:

• Try to discourage your loved one tactfully.
• Try to distract his or her attention with an activity or a conversation about someone or something he or she likes to talk about (e.g., an old friend, a grandchild, sports, a movie).
• Try to understand that having dementia doesn't mean your loved one no longer has physical or sexual needs. It's just that your loved one's inhibitions and social skills may not be functioning.

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Behavior Management Tools