Sexuality and life-threatening illness: implications for social work and palliative care.

Full Abstract

Social workers in hospice and palliative care settings have been charged with the responsibility of addressing sexuality with their patients and families. However, little direction has been offered as to how to approach this difficult subject within the context of palliative care. This article provides a critical analysis of the previous literature on sexuality and terminal illness. The authors address systemic barriers, such as institutional policies that marginalize already vulnerable groups. Several recommendations are provided for social workers, including skills, core dimensions for assessment and intervention, and implications for interdisciplinary teamwork.

Author information

Author/s: Cagle, John G (JG); Bolte, Sage (S);

Affiliation: UNC Institute on Aging, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-1030, USA. cagle(-atsign-)schsr.unc.edu

Grants: 2T32AG000272-06A2 (Agency:NIA NIH HHS)

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Journal Article; Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural; Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't; Review

Journal: Health & social work (Health Soc Work), published in United States. (Language: eng)

Reference: 2009-Aug; vol 34 (issue 3) : pp 223-33

Dates: Created 2009/09/04; Completed 2009/10/06;

PMID: 19728481, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 10/6/2009, IMS Date: )

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