Initiating conversations about resident sexual expression in AB CC homes: A panel discussion 

ICCER is pleased to offer a follow-up webinar about sexuality in continuing care on March 18. Initiating conversations about resident sexual expression in Alberta's continuing care homes will include a panel discussion to build knowledge, comfort, and skill with talking about resident sexual expression as panelists share their insights around this important aspect of resident life.

About the webinar: There is ample evidence of continuing care residents' ongoing interest in sexual expression and its benefits for well-being. Despite this, sexual expression in care homes is a complex matter and can be perceived as taboo. When broaching the topic of resident sexual expression there can be difficulties in finding the right language, or tensions surrounding attitudes and values. Sometimes resident sexual expression is unexpected in continuing care homes and conversations about it may use euphemisms, stigma, shame, or conversations are avoided altogether. As a result, residents and care providers can be left feeling unseen, unheard, unsafe, and/or disrespected. 

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Panelists

• Colleen Torgunrud (BA, BSW, MA, Clinical Ethicist) is a Clinical Ethicist in the Edmonton Zone for AHS. She gladly joined the Ethics Service when AHS was formed. Prior to that she worked in Patient Quality Improvement for Capital Health, and was a registered Social Worker for 20+ years within the health system in Alberta. Colleen received a BA in Sociology/Psychology from the U of Alberta, a Bachelor of Social Work from the U of Calgary, and holds a Master of Arts in Medical Ethics from Keele University, Straffordshire, UK. 

• Jodie Cuff (RecT, MSW) is a Social Work Practice Lead with the Supportive Living program in AHS. She has worked with AHS as part of the Supportive Living program since 2011. Prior to this, she has worked in both front-line and management capacities supporting primarily vulnerable and marginalized populations within the not-for-profit sector, community services, and continuing care facilities. Jodie received her BA in Recreation Administration, specializing in Therapeutic Recreation, from the U of A. She spent over 10 years in the RecT profession before completing her Masters of Social Work from the U of C. 

• Lisa Howard (Registered Nurse, Researcher) has been an Assistant Professor with the Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Lethbridge since July 2014. She has taught a variety of undergraduate courses in nursing and her research interests include chronic disease self-management, health communication, and sexual expression. Lisa is a RN with experience in intensive care, community health, primary care, quality improvement, and staff development.

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Please note: This webinar is free for ICCER member organizations*, associate members, as well as individual members. The cost is $15/site for non-members to attend. See the list of members below!  

*ICCER member organizations: Bethany Care Society, Bow Valley College, CapitalCare, Carewest, College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta (staff only), Excel Society, Extendicare, Good Samaritan Society, Keyano College, Lifestyle Options, NorQuest College, Shepherd's Care Foundation, Sherwood Care, Silvera for Seniors, St. Michael's Health Group, University of Alberta, Wing Kei

**Associate ICCER members: BioAlberta, Berry Architecture, Dignity Memorial, Rexall; Note: Associate members are entitled to a maximum of 5 free webinar registrations. Additional registrations require payment.