Papers by Sandra McDonald
Sexuality Research and Social Policy, 2021
Introduction Sexuality and intimacy in residential aged care (RAC) are receiving increased resear... more Introduction Sexuality and intimacy in residential aged care (RAC) are receiving increased research attention. In this article, porneia refers to access to sex workers, as well as online pornography, and masturbation by residents in RAC. Sex work is legal and regulated in Aotearoa New Zealand. Methods The present study was a two-arm mixed-method cross-sectional study using a concurrent triangulation design. A validated survey tool was developed. Data were collected in 2018-2019: 433 staff surveys were collected from 35 RAC across the country; 61 interviews were carried out with 77 staff, residents, and family members. Results Staff opinions about sex work and pornography were inconclusive. Nevertheless, access to sex workers occurs in many RAC facilities across the country. Interviews demonstrated a diversity of responses among the three groups; staff attitudes are paramount. Conclusions Some staff are prepared for resident requests for sex workers; others continue to look to polici...
What counts as consent? Sexuality and ethical deliberation in residential aged care, 2020
This national study conducted in Aotearoa New Zealand was a two-arm mixed-method cross-sectional ... more This national study conducted in Aotearoa New Zealand was a two-arm mixed-method cross-sectional study using a concurrent triangulation design. The quantitative arm includes the results of 433 staff surveys related to knowledge, attitude, behaviours and beliefs about sexuality, intimacy, and ageing. The qualitative arm includes interviews with 75 participants including staff, residents, and family members. The study addresses issues of decision-making around consent and sexuality, and includes issues related to dementia, transition to residential care, loneliness, physical structures and furnishings of care facilities, religion and ethnicity, sexual and gender diversity, sex work, and education. Facilities will want to establish policies about sexuality and intimacy and regularly communicate those policies and practices to staff, residents and family members. Facilities may also wish to consider educational events about gender and sexual diversity for residents and family members as well as staff. See the report online at https://mro.massey.ac.nz/handle/10179/15720
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Papers by Sandra McDonald