Sexuality Reflection

This guest lecture was a great insight into a very important occupation that gets passed over by OT very often. I feel like this is due to health professional being uncomfortable discussing the topic or don't consider how their client's new condition or older age may affect their sexuality.  One thing I learned that I will be able to educate future clients on is the different arousal progression for men and women. If someone has had a life changing event and their sexuality is affected, educating on this will help them understand that they aren't "broken" but they just get aroused in different ways. I feel that this lecture gave me the tools to begin this conversation about sexuality with future clients when needed.

One group intervention would be to educate on a variety of adaptive equipment that could benefit older adults. This would be an informative session to provide them with resources and let them make their own decisions based on their particular needs. This could include a folded male masturbater in order to assist with limited ROM, lubricant, or a wedge to assist in positioning.

Another intervention could be to assist with positioning during intercourse. This would be a contrived activity where the partner could be involved or a blow up doll could be in the place of the partner if they felt uncomfortable. Through this activity, we would find what positions would work best for the client in order to give them the tools to be sexually independent.

Driving Reflection

One of the key take aways I got from our driving guest lecturer is that driving is an essential part to someone's independence and they are not likely to give it up easily. But as an OT, we must consider the safety of everyone else on the road and refer them to a driving specialist when necessary. I also learned that some modification can be made to cars to increase someones driving longevity, such as a large rearview mirror or blind spot mirrors for side mirrors.

One intervention that would be applicable to those with driving difficulties could be to work on reaction time by doing eye-foot activities. One activity could be playing kick ball. This would help their reaction time from gas to break when driving.

Another intervention could be Wii Mario Cart. This would be a fun intervention that would work on cognition, motor planning, reaction time, and rules of the road. All of these skills can impact their driving ability.