Program Overview

Institute on Disabilities at Temple University

The Institute on Disabilities at Temple University is Pennsylvania's University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities. The institute provides education, research, and services, primarily working with the community outside of Temple University. It also has a student program for people with developmental disabilities to have a college experience.

Healthy Sexuality Project

The Healthy Sexuality Project, hosted under the Institute on Disabilities, offers holistic sexuality education for disabled people, families, and professionals in Pennsylvania. The project aims to provide comprehensive information and support on disability and sexuality.

Sex and Disability 101 Webinar

The Sex and Disability 101 Webinar is an introduction to human sexuality and assistive technology for intimacy and sexuality. The webinar covers topics such as healthy sexuality, circles of sexuality, and assistive technology devices that can empower sexuality and intimacy for people with disabilities.

Circles of Sexuality

The circles of sexuality model includes five interconnected circles:

• Sensuality: Involves all the senses and honors different ways of interacting with the world.
• Intimacy: Involves physical and emotional closeness, vulnerability, and mutual care.
• Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity: Recognizes the diversity of sexual orientations and gender identities.
• Sexual and Reproductive Health: Covers how bodies work, puberty, menstruation, menopause, and staying healthy and safe.
• Sexual Behaviors and Practices: Includes consent, different types of sex, and sexual activities.

Assistive Technology for Sexuality

Assistive technology can help individuals with disabilities achieve intimacy and pleasure. Categories of devices include:

• Communication: Alternative lighting, Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) devices.
• Positioning: Wedge cushions, Wanda Toy Mount, sexual lounge chairs, Intimate Rider and Ride Mate, multifunctional positioning chair, wheelchairs, and Hoyer lifts.
• Stimulation: Finger Vibe, anal plugs, We Vibe, Flip Orb, Ohnut Penetration Buffer Ring, toy harness for the knee, Bluetooth masturbators, skin-safe bondage tape, Jewel Volta, extension reach handle with a dildo, and Starsi Vibe.
• Cleanup and Aftercare: Wipeys, toy cleaner, waterproofing options, portable urinal, healthy snacks, essential oils for ambiance, and alternative heating and cooling options.

Resources

Resources available for sexuality and disability include:

• PCAR, PA Coalition to Advance Respect
• National Sexual Assault Hotline
• National Domestic Violence Hotline
• Childline for Suspected Child Abuse
• Crisis Text Line
• Disability Rights PA
• The Trevor Project for young LGBTQ people
• Trans Lifeline
• Videos and documentaries on sexuality and disability
• Resource hubs like Disability-inclusive Sexual Health Network, HUB, Healthy Understanding of our Bodies, and Planned Parenthood.