Program Description
Recorded: June 27, 2023 – People with new or existing disabilities often have difficulty accessing sexual health information, and may require adaptive means to participate in this part of life. This topic crosses the lifespan from education in schools to our aging communities. For example, sex education is provided in Maine schools to empower students to develop healthy, fulfilling relationships, regardless of their intellectual, behavioral and physical abilities.
This webinar introduces teachers, therapists, caregivers and those with disabilities to resources that can help everyone approach this delicate topic.
Objectives:
- Learn about barriers that some people with disabilities face when learning about and participating in sexual expression and intimate relationships.
- Learn about resources available to communicate sexual health information to people with various disabilities.
- Learn about some resources for assistive technologies that people with disabilities might use to be able to engage in intimate relationships.
Presenter
Melissa Bliss, MS OTR/L – Melissa is an occupational therapist and assistive technology specialist at Maine CITE, the state assistive technology program in Maine. She has worked in a wide variety of educational and clinical settings as an OT, including home health, nursing homes, early intervention, schools, acute care, rehab, and as a program coordinator for an AT lending library and reuse program in Portland. Melissa joined Maine CITE in July, 2022, where she focuses on ensuring that all Maine people have better access to and information about the technologies and adaptive equipment they need to lead full and productive lives.
Resources
Please note that a certificate of attendance is not provided for watching the recorded webinar. To receive a certificate of attendance you must have attended the live training, completed the evaluation, and included your email address.
Resources discussed in webinar:
Sexual Education, Intimacy and Disability Handout – PDF
Sexual Education, Intimacy and Disability PowerPoint – PDF
Rev: 7/5/2023