Sexual functioning and the physically disabled adult

Abstract

A person's sexual readjustment following a physical disability has traditionally been ignored by health care professionals. Since the occupational therapist often facilitates a person's resumption of activities of daily living, the therapist is in a special position to provide counseling. Understanding, support, and correct information are needed most. As derived from a search of the literature, sexual functioning is discussed in relation to the following disabilities: stroke, heart disease, diabetes mellitus, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, renal disease, spinal cord injury, pulmonary disease, arthritis, and alcoholism.