Fundamentally, a policy must balance the patient's right to sexual intimacy in a dignified setting with the hospital administration's duty to take reasonable steps to protect patients from harm.

Intimacy and sexual expression are an integral part of being human and of healthy living. However, this important aspect of well-being is often overlooked or avoided when a person enters a care facility such as a nursing home, group home, or assisted living residence. This article summarizes the new Supporting Sexual Health and Intimacy in Care Facilities Guidelines, which suggest ways of supporting healthy intimacy and sexuality in care facilities.