- Addis, S., Davies, M., Greene, G., MacBride-Stewart, S., & Shepherd, M.. (2009). The health, social care and housing needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender older people: a review of the literature. Health & Social Care in the Community, 17(6), 647–658. doi:10.1111/j.1365-2524.2009.00866.x.
- Averett, P., Yoon, I., & Jenkins, C. L.. (2011). Older Lesbians: Experiences of Aging, Discrimination and Resilience. Journal of Women & Aging, 23(3), 216–232. doi:10.1080/08952841.2011.587742.
[Résumé]Older lesbians are, at minimum, a triple threat of marginalization due to ageism, heterosexism, and sexism. A national survey specific to this often-invisible population has not occurred in over 25 years. The present study was completed to reveal the needs, strengths, and experiences of the current cohort of older lesbians. Four hun- dred fifty-six older lesbians responded to an online survey on topics including sociodemographics, social activity, health, sexual iden- tity, family relationships, romantic relationships, service/program use, mental health, end-of-life care, and discrimination. The results and implications are included as well as a comparison to the last studied cohort.
- Barrett, C., Crameri, P., Lambourne, S., Latham, J. R., & Whyte, C.. (2015). Understanding the experiences and needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans Australians living with dementia, and their partners. Australasian Journal on Ageing, 34, 34–38. doi:10.1111/ajag.12271.
- Barrett, C., Whyte, C., Comfort, J., Lyons, A., & Crameri, P.. (2014). Social connection, relationships and older lesbian and gay people. Sexual and Relationship Therapy, 30(1), 131–142. doi:10.1080/14681994.2014.963983.
[Résumé] [URL]This paper presents data from a small study exploring the impacts of homophobia on the lives of older lesbian and gay Australians. Eleven in-depth interviews were conducted with older lesbians (6) and gay men (5) ranging in age from 65 to 79 years. The study found that participants{’} sense of self was shaped by the dominant medical, legal and religious institutions of their youth that defined them as sick, immoral or criminal. Participants described enforced {\textquotedblleft}cure{\textquotedblright} therapies, being imprisoned, having employment terminated and being disowned and disinherited by family. In this context, intimate relationships and social networks provided refuge where trust was rebuilt and sexuality affirmed. Many created safe spaces for themselves. This equilibrium was threatened with increasing age, disability and the reliance on health and social services. Participants feared a return to institutional control and a need to {\textquotedblleft}straighten up{\textquotedblright} or hide their sexuality. In response, partners stepped into the role of caregiver, at times beyond their capacity and at a cost to their relationship. The study describes the importance of understanding social connections in the lives of older lesbians and gay men. It highlights the need for inclusive services to ensure that social networks are supported and that health and well-being are promoted.
- Beauchamp, J., Chamberland, L., & Carbonneau, H.. (2020). Le vieillissement chez les a\^\inés gais et lesbiennes: Entre la normalité, l’expression de besoins spécifiques et leur capacité d’agir. Nouvelles pratiques sociales, 31(1), 279–299. doi:10.7202/1069927ar.
[Résumé] [URL]Cet article porte sur le vieillissement des a{\^\i}nés gais et lesbiennes selon une approche qualitative. Selon des recherches, plusieurs facteurs viennent influencer les perceptions et les expériences du vieillissement des a{\^\i}nés gais et lesbiennes. Les résultats sont tirés d{’}une recherche doctorale explorant la participation sociale des a{\^\i}nés gais et lesbiennes. L{’}article documente les représentations et perceptions du vieillissement, les enjeux spécifiques à l{’}intersection de l{’}orientation sexuelle et de l{’}avancée en âge ainsi que l{’}agentivité des a{\^\i}nés gais et lesbiennes.
- Beeler, J. A., Rawls, T. W., Herdt, G., & Cohler, B. J.. (1999). The Needs of Older Lesbians and Gay Men in Chicago. Journal of Gay & Lesbian Social Services, 9(1), 31–49. doi:10.1300/J041v09n01_02.
- Brennan-Ing, M., Seidel, L., Larson, B., & Karpiak, S. E.. (2013). Social Care Networks and Older LGBT Adults: Challenges for the Future. Journal of Homosexuality, 61(1), 21–52. doi:10.1080/00918369.2013.835235.
[Résumé] [URL]Research on service needs among older adults rarely addresses the special circumstances of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals, such as their reliance on friend-centered social networks or the experience of discrimination from service providers. Limited data suggests that older LGBT adults underuti- lize health and social services that are important in maintaining independence and quality of life. This study explored the social care networks of this population using a mixed-methods approach. Data were obtained from 210 LGBT older adults. The average age was 60 years, and 71% were men, 24% were women, and 5% were transgender or intersex. One-third was Black, and 62% were Caucasian. Quantitative assessments found high levels of morbidity and friend-centered support networks. Need for and use of services was frequently reported. Content analysis revealed unmet needs for basic supports, including housing, economic supports, and help with entitlements. Limited opportunities for socialization were strongly expressed, particularly among older lesbians. Implications for senior programs and policies are discussed.
- Brotman, S., Ryan, B., & Cormier, R.. (2003). The Health and Social Service Needs of Gay and Lesbian Elders and Their Families in Canada. The Gerontologist, 43(2), 192–202.
- Buczak-Stec, E., König, H., Feddern, L., & Hajek, A.. (2020). Long-Term Care Preferences and Sexual Orientation: Protocol for a Systematic Review. Healthcare, 8(4), 572. doi:10.3390/healthcare8040572. [URL]
- Caceres, B. A., Travers, J., Primiano, J., Luscombe, R. E., & Dorsen, C.. (2020). Provider and LGBT Individuals’ Perspectives on LGBT Issues in Long-Term Care: A Systematic Review. The Gerontologist, 60(3), e169–e183. doi:10.1093/geront/gnz012.
- Cahill, S.. (2020). LGBT Aging 2025: Strategies for Achieving a Healthy and Thriving LGBT Older Adult Community in Massachusetts Boston: . [URL]
- Coleman, C. L.. (2018). Physical and Psychological Abuse among Seropositive African American MSM 50 Aged Years and Older. Issues in Mental Health Nursing, 39(1), 46–52. doi:10.1080/01612840.2017.1397828.
[Résumé]Little is known about abuse experienced among African American men who have sex with men (MSM) who are 50 years and older. A series of focus groups were conducted to examine perspectives of seropositive African American MSM age 50 years and older who reported experiencing some form of psychological or physical abuse. Thirty African American MSM were divided into four focus groups and four themes emerged: {\textquotedblleft}Fear Being Gay,{\textquotedblright} {\textquotedblleft}No One Else to Love Me,{\textquotedblright} {\textquotedblleft}Nowhere to Turn,{\textquotedblright} and {\textquotedblleft}Sexual Risk {&} Control.{\textquotedblright} The data suggest there is a need to develop culturally tailored interventions for this population.
- Croghan, C. F., Moone, R. P., & Olson, A. M.. (2015). Working With LGBT Baby Boomers and Older Adults: Factors That Signal a Welcoming Service Environment. Journal of Gerontological Social Work, 58, 637–651. doi:10.1080/01634372.2015.1072759. [URL]
- Czaja, S. J., Sabbag, S., Lee, C. C., Schulz, R., Lang, S., Vlahovic, T., Jaret, A., & Thurston, C.. (2015). Concerns about aging and caregiving among middle- aged and older lesbian and gay adults. Aging & Mental Health, 20(11), 1107–1118. doi:10.1080/13607863.2015.1072795. [URL]
- Dune, T., Ullman, J., Ferfolja, T., Thepsourinthone, J., Garga, S., & Mengesha, Z.. (2020). Are Services Inclusive? A Review of the Experiences of Older GSD Women in Accessing Health, Social and Aged Care Services. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 17(11), 3861–17. doi:10.3390/ijerph17113861.
[Résumé] [URL]The review aimed to examine the views and experiences of ageing gender and sexually diverse (GSD) women{&}mdash;a triple minority in relation to their age, gender and sexual orientation{&}mdash;in accessing health, social and aged care services. Eighteen peer reviewed articles identified from seven electronic databases in health and social sciences were evaluated according to predefined criteria and a thematic review methodology drawing upon socio-ecological theory was used to analyse and interpret the findings. Four major themes were identified from the analysis: {&}ldquo;The Dilemma of Disclosure{&}rdquo;, {&}ldquo;Belonging/Connection{&}rdquo;, {&}ldquo;Inclusiveness of Aged Care{&}rdquo; and {&}ldquo;Other Barriers to Access Care{&}rdquo;. In the dilemma of disclosure, older GSD women consider factors such as previous experiences, relationship with the provider and anticipated duration of stay with the provider before disclosing their sexual identifies. The review also revealed that aged care services lack inclusiveness in their policies, advertising materials, aged care spaces and provider knowledge and attitude to provide sensitive and appropriate care to GSD women. Overall, older GSD women experience multiple and multilevel challenges when accessing health, aged and social services and interventions are needed at all levels of the socio-ecological arena to improve their access and quality of care.
- Espinoza, R.. (2014). Out & Visible: The Experiences and Attitudes of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Older Adults, Ages 45-75 New York: .
- Fenge, L., Fannin, A., Hicks, C., & Lavin, N.. (2008). Social Work Practice with Older Lesbians and Gay Men. Exeter: Learning Matters. [URL]
- Fredriksen-Goldsen, K. I., Kim, H., Hoy-Ellis, C. P., Goldsen, J., Jensen, D., Adelman, M., Costa, M. L., & de Vries, B.. (2013). Addressing the Needs of LGBT Older Adults in San Francisco: Seattle: University of Washington. [URL]
- Furlotte, C., Gladstone, J. W., Cosby, R. F., & Fitzgerald, K.. (2016). « Could We Hold Hands? » Older Lesbian and Gay Couples’ Perceptions of Long-Term Care Homes and Home Care. Canadian Journal on Aging / La Revue canadienne du vieillissement, 35(4), 432–446. doi:10.1017/S0714980816000489{&}domain=pdf.
[Résumé]This qualitative study describes expectations, concerns, and needs regarding long-term care (LTC) homes and home care services of 12 older lesbian and gay couples living in Canada. Our findings reflect four major themes: discrimination, identity, expenditure of energy, and nuanced care. Discrimination involved concerns about covert discrimination; loss of social buffers as one ages; and diminished ability to advocate for oneself and one{’}s partner. Identity involved anticipated risk over disclosing one{’}s sexual identity; the importance of being identified within a coupled relationship; and the importance of access to reference groups of other gay seniors. We conclude that partners were burdened by the emotional effort expended to hide parts of their identity, assess their environments for discrimination, and to placate others. Nuanced care involved a mutual level of comfort experienced by participants and their health care providers. These themes inform understandings of LTC homes and home care services for lesbian and gay older couples.
- Gahagan, J., Redden, M., & National LGBT Housing Matters Research Team. (2020). LGBT Housing Matters: Results of the Canadian LGBT older adults and housing project Halifax: .
[Résumé] [URL]Housing is widely recognized as a key determinant of health and yet many older lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) Canadians continue to experience or are at risk of experiencing housing precarity or homelessness. This report offers the key findings from our national study on the housing issues facing older LGBT Canadians and recommendations on addressing these important inequities.
- Gardner, A. T., de Vries, B., & Mockus, D. S.. (2013). Aging Out in the Desert: Disclosure, Acceptance, and Service Use Among Midlife and Older Lesbians and Gay Men. Journal of Homosexuality, 61(1), 129–144. doi:10.1080/00918369.2013.835240.
[Résumé] [URL]Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) persons in the county of Riverside, CA and in the Palm Springs/Coachella Valley area, in particular, responded to a questionnaire addressing concerns about identity disclosure and comfort accessing social services. Distributed at a Pride festival, as well as through reli- gious, social, and service agencies, the final sample for analysis of 502 comprised 401 (80%) gay men and 101 (20%) lesbians in 4 groups: < 50 years of age (18%), 50 to 59 (26%), 60 to 69 (36%), and over 70 (20%). Results reveal that almost one-third of midlife and older gay men and lesbians maintain some fear of openly disclosing their sexual orientation. Along comparable lines with similar proportions, older gay men and lesbians maintain some discomfort in their use of older adult social services, even as the majority reports that they would feel more comfortable accessing LGBT-friendly identified services and programs. In both cases, les- bians reported greater fear and discomfort than did gay men; older gay men and lesbians reported that they would be less comfortable accessing LGBT-identified services and programs than did younger gay men and lesbians. These data support prior research on the apprehension of LGBT elders in accessing care, the crucial role of acceptance, with some suggestions of how social services might better prepare to address these needs.
- Higgins, A., & Hynes, G.. (2019). Meeting the Needs of People Who Identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer in Palliative Care Settings. Journal of Hospice & Palliative Nursing, 21(4), 286–290. doi:10.1097/NJH.0000000000000525.
[Résumé] [URL]e or in a nursing home, hospital, or hospice. Although research on the needs of LGBTQ people at the end of life is sparse, drawing on what is available this article explores some of their unique concerns that practitioners should consider during their interactions….
- Johnson, M. J., Jackson, N. C., Arnette, K. J., & Koffman, S. D.. (2005). Gay and Lesbian Perceptions of Discrimination in Retirement Care Facilities. Journal of Homosexuality, 49(2), 83–102. doi:10.1300/J082v49n02_05.
[Résumé]Much research on older gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (GLBT) adults has focused on refuting the widely held mis- conceptions people have about GLBT lifestyles. To date, however, few studies on older GLBTs have examined their social and health care needs. Further, most studies have collected survey samples of older GLBT adults in large metropolitan areas and have not specifically ad- dressed discrimination or bias in retirement care facilities. In the current exploratory study on perceptions of discrimination and bias in retire- ment care facilities, we surveyed a wide age range GLBT adults in a smaller metropolitan area of fewer than 400,000 people to discover the perceptions of both younger and older GLBTs. We surveyed perceptions of discrimination in retirement care facilities, sources of perceived dis- crimination, and suggestions for how discrimination might be reduced or eliminated in those settings. Respondents indicated that administra- tion, care staff, and residents of retirement care facilities themselves were all potential sources of discrimination, and that education address- ing awareness and acceptance of GLBTs is one potential remedy for dis- crimination against GLBTs in retirement care facilities. Respondents also indicated a strong desire for the development of GLBT-exclusive or GLBT-friendly retirement care facilities. Chi-square analyses of re- sponses to the discrimination questions and respondents{’} demographic characteristics revealed significant differences with regard to age, in- come, gender, community size, and education level of the respondents.
- King, A., & Stoneman, P.. (2017). Understanding SAFE Housing – putting older LGBT* people’s concerns, preferences and experiences of housing in England in a sociological context. Housing, Care and Support, 20(3), 89–99. doi:10.1108/HCS-04-2017-0010. [URL]
- Lottmann, R., & King, A.. (2020). Who can I turn to? Social networks and the housing, care and support preferences of older lesbian and gay people in the UK. Sexualities. doi:10.1177/1363460720944588. [URL]
- Lottmann, R., & Kollak, I.. (2018). Eine diversitätssensible Pflege für schwule und lesbische Pflegebedürftige – Ergebnisse des Forschungsprojekts GLESA. International Journal of Health Professions, 5(1), 53–63. doi:10.2478/ijhp-2018-0005. [URL]
- Löf, J., & Olaison, A.. (2020). ‘I don’t want to go back into the closet just because I need care’: recognition of older LGBTQ adults in relation to future care needs. European Journal of Social Work, 23(2), 253–264. doi:10.1080/13691457.2018.1534087.
[Résumé] [URL]There is increasing awareness in research about the social service needs of older LGBTQ adults. However, there are few studies that deal with differences in this community regarding elder care services. As a rule, transgender individuals are not included in these studies. This study focuses on how older Swedish LGBTQ adults reason about openness in an elder care context concerning their future needs for services and adopts Nancy Fraser{’}s theoretical framework of recognition. The material consists of fifteen semi-structured interviews with older LGBTQ adults. The results indicate that the main concern for older LGBTQ individuals is being accepted for their preferred sexual orientation and/or gender identity in elder care. However, there were differences regarding that concern in this LGBTQ group. There were also a variety of approaches in the group as to preferences for equal versus special treatment with respect to their LGBTQ identity. In addition, there were differences as to whether they prefer to live in LGBTQ housing or not. The findings contribute to existing knowledge by highlighting the diverse views on elder care services in both this group of interviewees and its subgroups. These findings emphasise the importance of the social work practice recognising different preferences and having an accepting approach. The results can further provide guidance on how to design elder care services for older LGBTQ adults.
- Mahieu, L., Cavolo, A., & Gastmans, C.. (2019). How do community-dwelling LGBT people perceive sexuality in residential aged care? A systematic literature review. Aging & Mental Health, 23(5), 529–540. [URL]
- MetLife. (2010). Still Out, Still Aging: The MetLife Study of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Baby Boomers .
[Résumé]Study of the attitudes of the LGBT community toward aging and retirement
- Morten, M. F., FarmerSmith, K., Smith, C., Vega, A. T., & Kadish, J.. (2012). Chicago LGBT Community Needs Assessment Data Summary Chicago: .
- Orel, N. A., & Coon, D. W.. (2016). The Challenges of Change: How Can We Meet the Care Needs of the Ever-Evolving LGBT Family?. Generations, 40(2), 41–45. doi:10.2307/26556199. [URL]
- Orel, N. A.. (2014). Investigating the Needs and Concerns of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Older Adults: The Use of Qualitative and Quantitative Methodology. Journal of Homosexuality, 61(1), 53–78. doi:10.1080/00918369.2013.835236.
- Orel, N. A.. (2009). Community needs assessment: documenting the need for affirmative services for LGB older adults. In Kimmel, D., Rose, T., & David, S. (Eds.), In Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Aging: Research and Clinical Perspectives (, pp. 227–246). New York: Columbia University Press.
- Phillips, J., & Marks, G.. (2006). Coming Out, Coming In: How do dominant discourses around aged care facilities take into account the identity and needs of ageing lesbians?. Gay Lesbian Issues and Psychology Review, 2(2), 67–77. [URL]
- Putney, J. M., Hebert, N., Snyder, M., Linscott, R. O., & Cahill, S.. (2020). The Housing Needs of Sexual and Gender Minority Older Adults: Implications for Policy and Practice. Journal of Homosexuality, 1–18. doi:10.1080/00918369.2020.1804261.
[Résumé]ABSTRACT This study identifies the interconnected needs and concerns of sexual and gender minority (SGM) older adults, with a particular focus on housing, healthcare, transportation, and social support. Data were gathered through seven groups with a sample of SGM-identified adults age 55 and over (N =~50) and analyzed using thematic analysis. The participants seek affordable and inclusive housing options. They identified that access to transportation is paramount in maintaining social support and accessing healthcare. Findings underscore the need for strategies to serve the housing needs of low-income SGM-identified older adults in a nondiscriminatory way, train housing providers in culturally responsive care, meet transportation needs, and provide SGM-inclusive community-based services that reduce isolation.
- Putney, J. M., Keary, S., Hebert, N., Krinsky, L., & Halmo, R.. (2018). \textquotedblleftFear Runs Deep:\textquotedblright The Anticipated Needs of LGBT Older Adults in Long-Term Care. Journal of Gerontological Social Work, 00(00), 1–21. doi:10.1080/01634372.2018.1508109.
[Résumé]Older lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) adults are a vulnerable yet resilient population who face unique stressors as they foresee health decline. This paper presents the results of a study about community-dwell- ing LGBT older adults{’} anticipated needs and fears related to nursing homes and assisted living. Methods: This qualitative study collected data through seven focus groups. The sample (N = 50) consisted of LGBT-identified adults age 55 and over. We used an inductive, thematic analysis approach to data analysis. Results: Participants seek an inclusive environment where they will be safe and feel connected to a community. They fear dependence on healthcare providers, dementia, mis- treatment, and isolation. Importantly, these fears can lead to identity concealment and psychological distress, including sui- cide ideation. Discussion: This study adds to the existing litera- ture about the worries of older LGBT adults as they anticipate long-term care. The results suggest that older LGBT adults seek LGBT-inclusive residential care settings that encompass two distinct yet related aspects of LGBT-affirmative care: the pro- cedural (e.g. culturally competent skills and knowledge of practitioners) and the implicit (e.g. the values and mission of the organization). This paper identifies implications for prac- tice, policy, and training.
- Rosati, F., Pistella, J., & Baiocco, R.. (2021). Italian Sexual Minority Older Adults in Healthcare Services: Identities, Discriminations, and Competencies. Sexuality Research and Social Policy, 18, 64–74. doi:10.1007/s13178-020-00443-z.
[Résumé] [URL]Purpose This study explores perceptions and experiences related to healthcare utilization in a group of Italian sexual minority older adults, to understand the unique challenges faced by this population when accessing healthcare services. Older adults represent one of the subgroups exposed to the highest risk within sexual minorities with regard to physical and mental health. Method Data collection occurred between October 2018 and April 2019. Semi-structured interviews were carried out with 23 participants over 60 years, including questions about participants{’}: experiences when dealing with physical/mental healthcare services; tendency to disclose sexual orientation in clinical contexts; preferences and desires when seeking care. Data were analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), in order to provide qualitative information on participants{’} experiences. Results Three interconnected themes were identified: the relevance of clinician and patient{’}s identities in determining confidence and satisfaction; expectations and experiences of discrimination; the need for specific competencies on sexual minority concerns. Conclusion Access and utilization of healthcare services can be considered as a multi-faceted phenomenon which involves people{’}s past and current experiences, perceptions, expectations and desires. Participants{’} perception of having to deal with heterosexist healthcare settings influences health behaviors and outcomes. Policy Implications Interventions directed to healthcare providers are needed, to increase specific competencies and ensure safe and affirming environments.
- Schwinn, S. V., & Dinkel, S. A.. (2015). Changing the Culture of Long-Term Care: Combating Heterosexism. OJIN: The Online Journal of Issues in Nursing, 20(2). doi:10.3912/OJIN.Vol20No02PPT03.
[Résumé] [URL]The purpose of this article is to describe how heterosexism impedes the provision of culturally competent care for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) residents in long-term care (LTC) facilities. LTC facilities continue to employ staff members who lack an understanding of sexuality and sexual diversity in the elderly. In this article, we identify the heterosexual assumption, namely heterosexism, as the primary issue surrounding the holistic care of the LGBTQ elder in LTC. We first review the literature related to LGBTQ elders in LTC facilities, identifying the themes that emerged from the review, specifically the definitions of homophobia and heterosexism; perceptions of LGBTQ elders as they consider placement in LTC facilities; and staff knowledge of and biases toward sexuality and sexual diversity in LTC settings. Then, we suggest approaches for changing the culture of LTC to one in which LGBTQ elders feel safe and valued, and conclude by considering how facility leaders are in a unique position to enable LGBTQ elders to flourish in what may be their last home.
- Stein, G. L., Beckerman, N. L., & Sherman, P. A.. (2010). Lesbian and Gay Elders and Long-Term Care: Identifying the Unique Psychosocial Perspectives and Challenges. Journal of Gerontological Social Work, 53(5), 421–435. doi:10.1080/01634372.2010.496478. [URL]
- Stinchcombe, A., Kortes-Miller, K., & Wilson, K.. (2016). Perspectives on the final stages of life from LGBT elders living in Ontario: Improving the last stages of life . [URL]
- The National Senior Citizens Law Center. (2011). Stories from the Field: LGBT Older Adults in Long-Term Care Facilities . [URL]
- Villar, F., Serrat, R., Fabà, J., & Celdrán, M.. (2015). Staff Reactions Toward Lesbian, Gay, or Bisexual (LGB) People Living in Residential Aged Care Facilities (RACFs) Who Actively Disclose Their Sexual Orientation. Journal of Homosexuality, 62(8), 1126–1143. doi:10.1080/00918369.2015.1021637.
[Résumé]Fifty-three staff members currently working in residential aged care facilities located in Barcelona, Spain, were asked about the way they would react if a resident told them that he or she felt sexually attracted and had maintained sexual relationships with another resident of the same gender. Acceptance of non-heterosexual sex- ual orientation was a frequent answer, and around one in four professionals stated that they would try helping the resident in question, by offering a private space or giving some emotional sup- port. However, some reactions were not consistent with a respectful approach toward sexual diversity, as, for instance, informing the resident{’}s family or advising the resident to keep his or her sexual orientation hidden. We highlight the importance of developing for- mal policies and offering formal training to staff in order to address the specific needs of older LGB people living in RACFs.
- Waling, A., Lyons, A., Alba, B., Minichiello, V., Barrett, C., Hughes, M., Fredriksen-Goldsen, K. I., & Edmonds, S.. (2019). Trans Women’s Perceptions of Residential Aged Care in Australia. British Journal of Social Work, 1–28. doi:10.1093/bjsw/bcz122/5606662.
- Waling, A., Lyons, A., Alba, B., Minichiello, V., Barrett, C., Hughes, M., Fredriksen-Goldsen, K. I., & Edmonds, S.. (2019). Experiences and perceptions of residential and home care services among older lesbian women and gay men in Australia. Health & Social Care in the Community, 34, 34–9. doi:10.1111/hsc.12760.
[Résumé]The needs of older lesbian and gay people regarding access and use of aged-care services remain underresearched. This paper reports the findings of 33 qualitative interviews with older lesbian women and gay men about their perceptions and expe- riences of residential aged-care and home-based aged-care services in Australia. The focus of this paper is their preparedness for using aged-care services. The results highlight that participants had a number of concerns related to accessing residential- care services in particular, including perceptions of a lack of inclusivity and concerns of potential for discrimination and hostility, loss of access to community and partners, decreased autonomy and concerns relating to quality of care and the potential for elder abuse. Participants noted a number of strategies they employed in avoiding residential-care services, including the use of home-care services, renovating the home for increased mobility, moving to locations with greater access to outside home-care services, a preference for lesbian/gay-specific housing and residential- care options if available, and the option of voluntary euthanasia to ensure dignity and autonomy. Participants, on the whole, were hopeful that they would never require the use of residential-care services, with some believing that having current good health or the support of friends could prevent this from happening. The findings sug- gest that older lesbian and gay people have a variety of concerns with aged-care and may need additional support and education to improve their perceptions and experi- ences of services, whether these are needed presently or in the future.
- Westwood, S.. (2017). Gender and older LGBT* housing discourse: the marginalised voices of older lesbians, gay and bisexual women. Housing, Care and Support, 20(3), 100–109. doi:10.1108/HCS-08-2017-0020. [URL]
- Willis, P., Maegusuku-Hewett, T., Raithby, M., & Miles, P.. (2014). Swimming upstream: the provision of inclusive care to older lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) adults in residential and nursing environments in Wales. Ageing and Society, 36(2), 282–306. doi:10.1017/S0144686X14001147.
[Résumé]This paper examines the ways in which older people{’}s residential and nursing homes can constitute heteronormative environments {–} social spaces in which the same-sex attractions and desires of residents are disregarded in the provision of everyday care. The aim of this discussion is to examine the synergies and differences between older lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) adults{’} expectations for future care home provision and the expectations of care staff and managers in providing residential services to older people with diverse sexual backgrounds. We present qualitative evidence from research into the provision of care environments in Wales. In this paper, we present findings from two cohorts: first, from five focus groups with care and nursing staff and managers; and second, from 29 semi-structured interviews with older LGB adults (50{–}76 years) residing in urban and rural locations across Wales. We argue that residential care environments can constitute heterosexualised spaces in which LGB identities are neglected in comparison to the needs and preferences of other residents. To this extent, we discuss how care staff and managers can be more attentive and responsive to the sexual biographies of all residents and argue against the separation of care and sexual orientation in practice.
- Willis, P., Raithby, M., Dobbs, C., Evans, E., & Bishop, J.. (2020). ‘I’m going to live my life for me’: trans ageing, care, and older trans and gender non-conforming adults’ expectations of and concerns for later life. Ageing and Society, 1–22. doi:10.1017/S0144686X20000604.
[Résumé] [URL]While research on the health and wellbeing of older lesbian, gay and bisexual adults is grad- ually expanding, research on older trans and gender non-conforming (TGNC) adults lags behind. Current scholarship about this group raises important questions about the intersec- tion of ageing and gender identity for enhancing care and support for older TGNC adults and the lack of preparedness of health and social professionals for meeting these needs. In this paper, we examine the accounts of 22 TGNC individuals (50{–}74 years) on the topic of ageing and unpack their concerns for and expectations of later life. We present qualitative findings from a study of gender identity, ageing and care, based in Wales, United Kingdom. Data were generated from two-part interviews with each participant. Four key themes are identified: (a) facilitative factors for transitioning in mid- to later life; (b) growing older as a new lease of life; (c) growing older: regrets, delays and uncertainties; and (d) ambivalent expectations of social care services. We argue that growing older as TGNC can be experi- enced across a multitude of standpoints, ranging from a new lease of life to a time of regret and uncertainty. We critically discuss emergent notions of trans time, precarity and uncer- tainty running across participants{’} accounts, and the implications for enhancing recognition of gender non-conformity and gender identity in social gerontology.
- Willis, P.. (2017). Queer, visible, present: the visibility of older LGB adults in long-term care environments. Housing, Care and Support, 20(3), 110–120. doi:10.1108/HCS-04-2017-0007.
[Résumé] [URL]This paper is a conceptual discussion of the ways in which the diverse lives, identities and collective politics of lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) people can be made visible, and how they are made visible, in long-term care environments for older people. The purpose of this paper is to problematise strategies of visibility as methods for promoting social inclusion in care environments.,This is a conceptual discussion that draws on several social theorists that have previously discussed the politics of visibility, knowledge and sexuality.,Promoting increased visibility in itself does not fully grapple with the ways in which older LGB can be represented and known as particular kinds of sexual citizens. This potentially curtails a more holistic recognition of their needs, interests and wishes, inclusive of their sexual lives and histories. Making LGB lives visible in care environments may not always be a productive or affirmative strategy for dismantling homophobic views and beliefs.,The theoretical implications of a politics of visibility warrant a deeper consideration of strategies for promoting visibility. The paper concludes with a discussion of some of the practical implications for rethinking strategies of visibility in care environments.,Critical discussions about the application of visibility strategies, and the problematic assumptions contained within such strategies, are lacking in relation to mainstream housing and social care provision for older LGB people. This paper seeks to initiate this important discussion.
- Wilson, K., Kortes-Miller, K., & Stinchcombe, A.. (2018). Staying Out of the Closet: LGBT Older Adults’ Hopes and Fears in Considering End-of-Life. Canadian Journal on Aging / La Revue canadienne du vieillissement, 37(1), 22–31. doi:10.1017/S0714980817000514.
[Résumé]Le vieillissement de la population canadienne et l{’}hétérogéneité des a{\^\i}nés amène une diversité accrue en fin de vie. L{’}objectif de cette étude était d{’}aider à combler les lacunes présentes dans la recherche du vieillissement et la fin de vie des personnes LGBT. À l{’}aide des groupes de discussion, nous avons tenté de mieux comprendre les expériences vécues des individus LGBT plus âgés, afin de mettre en évidence leurs inquiétudes associés aux dernières phases de la vie. Notre analyse démontre que l{’}identité LGBT est déterminante lorsqu{’}on considère le vieillissement et les soins en fin de vie. En particulier, l{’}identité de genre et l{’}orientation sexuelle sont des facteurs importants par rapport aux liens sociaux, influençant les attentes des individus envers les soins qu{’}ils reçoivent, à la crainte unique associée à la révélation de son homosexualité et le maintien de l{’}identité tout au long du vieillissement et des dernières phases de la vie. Cette étude souligne le besoin de considérer l{’}identité du genre et l{’}orientation sexuelle en fin de vie. En particulier, la reconnaissance de l{’}intersectionnalité et des lieux sociaux est essentielle afin de faciliter des expériences positives par rapport au vieillissement et des soins en fin de vie.
- und queerAltern} {Fachgruppe Alter von Pink Cross LOS, T. I.. (2020). Erwartungen der LGBTIQ-Menschen an Alters- und Pflegeeinrichtungen und Spitäler, an Spitex und Pflegefachschulen sowie an die Fachgruppe Alter: Bericht und Ergebnisse der Umfrage Bern: . [URL]