A University of Sydney researcher is exploring the impact of stroke on sexuality in LGBTIQ+ stroke survivors and their partners.
PhD candidate William Kokay is a full-time hospital worker specialising in rehabilitation.
The researcher has seen first-hand how heteronormative rehabilitation approaches can leave LGBTIQ+ people and their partners particularly vulnerable and left to educate themselves about the sexual issues they may face.
Kokay said:
“Sexuality is integral to wellbeing and confidence, and yet there is currently no research on how stroke impacts members of the LGBTIQ+ community.
“My research aims to explore how sexuality is experienced by LGBTQI+ persons and their partners following stroke.
“This information is critical in order to develop best practice interventions to support sexual health and well-being among this population.”
The researcher is looking to speak to members of the LGBTQI+ community and their partners about their experiences for the study.
The study is open to people who are (i) Aged 18 years and older (ii) living in Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada or United Kingdom (iii) identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer / questioning or intersex (iv) have experienced a stroke or are a partner of a person who has experienced a stroke.
Kokay added:
“My hope is that this research can amplify the voices of LGBTIQ+ stroke survivors and bring an important perspective to a health issue in the LGBTIQ+ community that is currently not addressed.
“This will also lead to the future development of inclusive sexual rehabilitation resources for stroke survivors and their partners.”
You can find further information at http://www.tinyurl.com/LGBTQI-stroke-study
Anyone who is interested in the study is invited to contact William Kokay by telephone or email to learn more.
The study has been approved by the Human Research Ethics Committee at the University of Sydney [2021/719]
