Pride and positivity for local LGBTQ seniors

Too often older adults get painted with the same broad brush and their difference become invisible as they age. This should not be the case, because these difference still need to be respected. Seniors who are LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transsexual, or otherwise identify as members of the queer community), have usually faced a lifetime of discrimination. In their youth these seniors may have faced disapproval and rejection by their families, religious organizations, and communities. As they age they may be faced with many of these same challenges.

Providing adequate and appropriate service to our aging population, in all its diversity, is a growing priority in our community. The recognition and inclusion of seniors with diverse sexual orientations and gender identities is an important, though often underrepresented, part of this work. Given the history of discrimination LGBTQ seniors have endured, as people age and require more personal support, assistance with daily living, and long-term care, these individuals are at risk of become fearful of expressing their sexual orientation or gender identity. They may decline access to social or community supports, thus becoming isolated. Spaces of care and community support must become actively welcoming to LGBTQ seniors in order to create safe spaces for these seniors to access necessary supports and services.

This is why the local chapter of PFLAG (Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) is partnering with Age-friendly Peterborough, Elder Abuse Ontario, and PARN – Your Community AIDS Resource network to deliver the Pride and Positivity project aimed at creating LGBTQ positive spaces and services for older adults in Peterborough City and County. Thanks to funding from the Ministry of Seniors Affairs and support from partners in the municipal, and health and community support services sectors the project enjoyed a successful launch at an event on June 21st at Fairhaven Long-term Care Home. The event was well attended with over 40 participants that cut across sectors and generations. Additional events and training opportunities will be scheduled starting in the Fall of 2017.

We all have a right to feel safe from harm and violence at all stages of life; Organizations that support or care for older adults are encouraged to contact the project partners to be kept up to date about this project and be informed of future events and training opportunities. When staff is aware of the vulnerabilities, experiences, and rights of LGBTQ seniors, they are more confident in their ability to avoid, prevent and respond to possible abuses.

For those who are already committed to this work remember visible statements of inclusivity or non-discrimination let individuals know they can feel safe in institutions. Rainbow symbols are unspoken signs of support internationally. They can be worn, posted on doors and walls, and attached to correspondence. Signs indicating gender-inclusive washrooms and change rooms help to diminish anxiety experienced by trans individuals, who are more at risk of abuse when using traditional gender-specific washrooms.

We can all take responsibility for understanding the needs and human rights of LGBTQ citizens by learning more - through talking with others, listening, reading, and questioning our own assumptions. We can all make a difference through: looking in, reaching out, and speaking up. We invite you to join us in this work.