Domain 10: Accessibility and Sexuality

Adults with disabilities often face barriers and challenges with respect to sexuality and sexual expression.  One recent academic study frame the issue as follows:

“Sexuality is an important aspect of human life and contributes to identity and physical and psychological health. For people with disabilities (physical, intellectual, developmental), sexuality is equally important. However, many studies showed that [people with disabilities] have fewer sexual experiences, are less likely to have a sexual partner, and are less likely to engage in solo sexual activities (e.g., masturbation). In other words, their sexual citizenship is hampered. [People with disabilities] often face prejudice, such as being seen as asexual or hypersexual, and when they want to express their sexuality they encounter many barriers.”^[1]

Adults with disabilities may have limited opportunities to express their sexuality, including difficulties finding sexual partners, accessing sexual health services, and participating in sexual activities.  They may “crawl into their shells”, as one writer puts it.^[2]  Adults with disabilities may also face discrimination and negative attitudes from partners, family members, and care providers, or the feelings of shame and stigma they experience within society can sometimes limit their ability to form meaningful sexual relationships and express their sexuality.  For example, a person with a disability isn’t expected to flirt, as people tend to view them as ‘perverts’ if they do.^[3]  CBC News profiled five women sharing their stories about dating and disability, noting that while dating is hard enough for able-bodied people, it is substantially more challenging for people with disabilities.^[4] In addition, people with disabilities are at great risk of experiencing sexual violence.^[5]

Some (in particular older adults) may have been shielded from accurate, comprehensive, and age-appropriate information about sexuality and sexual health, leading to misunderstandings and misconceptions about their sexual experiences and needs.  Adults with disabilities may also face physical and accessibility barriers that prevent them from accessing sexual health services, including doctor’s offices, clinics, and pharmacies.  They may also face barriers in accessing sexual health information and educational materials.  They may also lack access to assistive technology and other resources that can help them to express their sexuality in a safe and fulfilling way.  These challenges can lead to feelings of isolation, low self-esteem, and decreased quality of life for adults with disabilities.

To further explore Domain 10: Accessibility and Sexuality, click to explore the sub-domains below:

Sex Surrogacy