Which term describes the ability to engage in sexual activity that continues throughout life unless disease or injury prevents it?

• A. Sexual Needs
• B. Sexual Harassment
• C. Sexual Abuse
• D. Sharing Information

Answer: (A)

Sexual needs describe the ongoing capacity or desire for sexual activity across a person’s life, assuming there aren’t medical or physical barriers. This term fits best because it conveys that sexuality can continue throughout life, unless disease or injury reduces or prevents it. It’s different from sexual harassment or sexual abuse, which involve inappropriate or harmful behavior, and from sharing information, which isn’t related to sexual activity. In caregiving, recognizing that sexual needs can persist helps you respect residents’ dignity, maintain privacy, ensure consent, and address health changes with the appropriate clinician when needed.