Sexuality of individuals in the end-of-life stage

SummaryThis paper looks at the dying process and the reasons to include discourse on human sexuality as part of the dying process when providing psycho-educational support to patients and families. Illness and learning of one's approaching death can disrupt the sex lives of terminally ill people who wish to continue benefiting from sexuality. This study uses the five stages of death theory, popularized by Elisabeth Kubler-Ross, and explores these stages from a unique sexological perspective. A qualitative methodological approach was used in order to better understand the difficulties met by terminally ill people when dealing with their sex lives during the various end-of-life stages. Data is presented as case histories gathered in the context of sexology consultations. Clinical interviews contributed to the resolution of sexual problems faced by terminally ill people and their family caregivers. This study raises questions about the professional's responsibility regarding the issue of sexuality for individuals in the end-of-life stage, as well as how to open discussions on sexuality.