10/16/2026
Sexuality is a normal part of life at any age. A person with dementia may still have sexual urges but may lose the judgment and impulse control that help them understand what is appropriate.
Possible changes include un******ng, making inappropriate comments, flirting, touching themselves or others, or making unwanted advances. These actions can occur in people of any gender.
What could happen:
➡️ Inappropriate comments.
➡️ Touching themselves or others.
➡️ Fondling themselves or others.
➡️ Public un******ng.
➡️ Making sexual advances.
➡️ Public self-stimulation.
Un******ng in public, making sexual advances, or self-stimulation in public are less common and usually occur as dementia progresses. Un******ng in public may happen when someone is too warm, has uncomfortable or itchy clothing, needs the bathroom, is experiencing a delusion, is bored, or is sexually aroused. When un******ng happens in public, stay calm and cover them quickly. Say, “Let’s get more comfortable somewhere private,” and guide them to a bathroom or private area. A shawl works as a quick cover.
Reduce un******ng triggers by choosing soft, seamless, comfortable clothing that is easy to manage. If un******ng persists, consider adaptive dementia-friendly clothing with back closures. Avoid clothing that makes toileting harder.
Public self-stimulation is rare but can happen. Respond calmly and without shaming. Guide the person to a bedroom or bathroom, and offer a simple activity, food, or drink. Check for possible causes such as a urinary tract infection, itching, or discomfort, and contact a physician if needed.
A person with dementia may mistake a family member for a spouse or partner from an earlier time. If something inappropriate happens, gently redirect the person, step away if needed, and take a moment to recover.
If it escalates: Stay calm, use a firm, gentle voice. Say “Stop that right now,” or “No, I don’t like that.” Match your body language to your words.
Redirect to a positive activity, snack, walk, or quiet location away from the trigger.
If help is needed, use a firm voice, say “No,” guide their hands away, and call for help.
Tracy Cram Perkins, Author — author of Dementia Home Care, How to Prepare Before, During and After.