Although research shows that intimacy and companionship relate positively to residents’ sense of independence, help facilitate good physical and mental health functioning and combat loneliness, such settings rarely promote or encourage such relationships between residents.
By Ann Christine Frankowski
Social relationships are critically important to older adults residing in assisted living. Although research shows that intimacy and companionship relate positively to residents’ sense of independence, help facilitate good physical and mental health functioning and combat loneliness, such settings rarely promote or encourage such relationships between residents. This is especially true of residents’ most intimate behaviors, shows of affection and expression of sexual needs and identity.