Elderly lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer individuals face discrimination from their families, society, healthcare providers, legal systems, and governments around the world. This leads to a lack of resources and supports that cause them to feel invisible and isolated. As a result, they are at risk for poor mental health outcomes such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse, loneliness, social isolation, physical illness, and suicide.
This situation can be remediated through policies, interventions, and social strategies.
In terms of policy intervention, laws must protect elderly LGBT people against discrimination based on gender identity and expression. They should also have access to housing, social services, and medical care without bias.
Governments need to fund research on LGBT aging so that more evidence exists about their unique needs and experiences.
Canada's seniors strategy includes initiatives like funding programs that address LGBTQ2S+ issues and supporting older adults who want to lead meaningful lives in inclusive communities.
Interventions include educational campaigns to increase awareness of LGBT aging needs among community members, policymakers, service providers, and health professionals. These efforts could be designed to reduce stigma and promote empathy and understanding of these groups' lived experiences. Educational materials could be distributed by public health departments or non-profit organizations.
Social strategies aimed at promoting visibility and inclusion can help marginalized elderly LGBT populations thrive. This may involve organizing events where they meet others with similar identities or creating networks where they can find emotional support and practical assistance.
A peer support program called ElderGayz offers weekly meetings for older gay men living alone in New York City. Participants get to talk about personal topics while engaging in activities together.
We should work together to create an environment where elderly LGBT individuals feel seen, valued, respected, and supported throughout life. By implementing policies, interventions, and social strategies, we can prevent them from feeling invisible and isolated, which is detrimental to their mental well-being.
What policies, interventions, and social strategies can enhance visibility, support, and well-being for marginalized elderly LGBT populations?
While ageism is a pervasive problem that affects everyone as they grow older, it disproportionately impacts members of marginalized communities, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) elders who have historically faced discrimination due to their sexual orientation and gender identity.