LGBTQ elders are individuals who identify themselves as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or another non-heterosexual orientation, and have reached an advanced age (typically defined as being over 65 years old). As they grow older, LGBTQ elders experience unique challenges related to their aging process. One such challenge is ageism, which refers to negative attitudes and stereotypes about people based on their age, especially those perceived as "old". In addition to this, LGBTQ elders may also face discrimination due to their sexual orientation and gender identity, creating a complex interplay between these factors that can impact their lives in various ways.
One area where ageism and LGBTQ identity intersect is healthcare. LGBTQ elders often report experiencing discrimination from healthcare providers, including refusal of care or lack of knowledge and sensitivity towards their needs. This can lead to poorer health outcomes and reduced access to quality care, particularly for older adults who rely heavily on medical services.
Some healthcare providers may be uncomfortable discussing sexuality and intimacy with older patients, making it difficult for LGBTQ elders to receive appropriate care.
Another area where ageism and LGBTQ identity intersect is housing and community support. LGBTQ elders may face difficulty finding safe and welcoming housing options that accommodate their specific needs, such as assistance with daily living activities or social connections. They may also feel isolated from the larger community due to a lack of inclusive programming or resources designed specifically for them.
Ageism and LGBTQ identity can intersect in social interactions, including relationships and family dynamics. Older LGBTQ individuals may experience rejection from family members or friends who do not accept their identity, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness. This can exacerbate existing challenges related to aging and create new ones, such as financial instability or loss of support networks.
Despite these challenges, many organizations are working to address the unique needs of LGBTQ elders and improve their experiences. These include advocacy groups, senior centers, and retirement communities that offer specialized programming and resources tailored to this population. There is also growing recognition among policymakers and healthcare professionals about the importance of providing culturally competent care and creating more inclusive environments for LGBTQ elders.
Ageism intersects with sexuality and gender identity to impact the lived experiences of LGBTQ elders in various ways. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach that addresses both ageism and homophobia/transphobia simultaneously, including policy changes, educational initiatives, and increased awareness-raising efforts. With appropriate support and resources, LGBTQ elders can live fulfilling lives as they age, free from discrimination and stigma.
How does ageism intersect with sexuality and gender identity to influence the lived experiences of LGBTQ elders?
Ageism is defined as the stereotyping, prejudice, and discrimination that occurs based on someone's age (Brown & Levinson, 1987). Sexuality refers to one's attraction to another person based on their sex, while gender identity describes an individual's internal sense of self as male, female, or otherwise (Nemours Children's Health System, n. d. ).