A couple good posts, thank you. In the longer Bloomberg article there are some quotes from experts about how dementia may alter one's sexual needs and the benefit that human touch or intimacy can have for the person. These are generalities but do help with trying to gain some level of insight. I agree that "she didn't say no" is not an acceptable reason. However a non-comatose person can certainly express displeasure, pain, discomfort as well as smile, interest, and seeming to be comforted. Would a spouse hopefully be able to differentiate these feelings? I would not want touch withheld even intimate contact if my spouse thought it might help me or pleasure me even if I were unable to give a formal yes. I would be horrified if the legal system took action against her for continuing to love me in all the ways she can. But I don't see a way to make broad rules that also protect patients who are unable to consent and would not have consented had they been less disabled.
|