𝗨𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗛𝘆𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗲𝘅𝘂𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗶𝗻 𝗗𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗮: 𝗔 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗣𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗴𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀

It’s universally known that dementia is associated with memory loss and confusion. It also affects behavior and personality in unexpected ways. One of the most striking is hypersexuality. These behaviors are caused by changes in the brain and not a change in the person’s character.

Hypersexuality refers to an increase in sexual thoughts, urges, or behaviors that are out of character or inappropriate. This includes sexually explicit comments, attempts to touch others inappropriately, exposing oneself, excessive masturbation, or repeated requests for sexual activity. They can occur in several types of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease.

Why does this happen? The parts of the brain that control judgment, impulse control, and social awareness become damaged by dementia. Patients may lose recognition of social boundaries or ability to control impulses. It may be helpful to think of the analogy of your favorite cake placed in front of you. Normally, you take a reasonably sized slice and save the rest for later. But, if you had a similar loss of impulse control, you would eat the whole cake at once.

For caregivers, hypersexuality may be difficult to manage because companions hired to help may quit and nursing homes may discharge them. But, sometimes hypersexuality has another explanation such as removing clothing because they are uncomfortable, too warm, or need to use the bathroom. Touching the genital area may reflect itching, a UTI or skin irritation. Identifying and treating these underlying medical issues is an important first step. Medications may be the cause.

Above all, remember that hypersexuality is a symptom of brain disease—not a reflection of the person’s values, morals, or lifelong personality. With understanding, compassion, and appropriate medical care, many families can successfully manage this challenging aspect of dementia while preserving the dignity of their loved one.

BeCare Neuro can help by detecting cognitive impairment early on and monitoring progression of cognitive impairment and its response to medication.  Be Aware with BeCare. Become a driver in your and your loved one’s neurologic journey.