Editorial: Navigating intimacy & sexuality in the context of dementia

Intimacy and sexuality in humans are important for psychological wellbeing and quality of life for humans. Such intimate and sexual needs are also pivotal in shaping our identities and relationships. These aspects of human experience do not fade with age or cognitive decline. Instead, they evolve, presenting unique challenges and opportunities for older individuals living with functional decline. The growing recognition of these challenges underscores the need for research to develop and inform caregiving practices and policy frameworks that acknowledge, respect and support the intimate and sexual rights and needs of older individuals living with dementia. The Research Topic “Navigating intimacy & sexuality in the context of dementia” in Frontiers in Dementia: Dementia Care highlights the multifaceted impact of dementia on intimate relationships and sexual expression. This Research Topic focused on providing insights and strategies that foster respectful and dignified care environments. This Research Topic aimed to chart a course toward compassionate and person-centered care by examining the expression of intimacy and sexuality, the prevailing stigmas around older adults' intimacy and sexuality needs, healthcare professionals and caregiver education to support such needs among older adults, the assessment of intimacy and sexuality needs, as well as the sexual rights of older individuals, living with dementia.