The social problems of elderly gays and lesbians are named
Last reviewed: 16.10.2021
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
The problems of aging and health facing lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgender people born during the demographic explosion are, to date, largely ignored. As the results of the first study on aging and health in these community groups have shown, these elderly people have a higher level of disability, physical and mental disorders and limited access to medical services.
The study, led by Karen Fredriksen-Goldsen of the University of Washington, shows that preventive and operational strategies need to be developed to meet the needs of these elderly people, whose number is expected to double to 4,000,000 by 2030.
"Medical inequality among lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgender people in old age is a serious public health problem," said Fredriksen-Goldsen, director of the UW Institute. The health of these people reflects the historical and social conditions of their lives. And the serious obstacles they face can jeopardize their health.
The study highlights the unique circumstances of this group of people, such as the fear of discrimination and the lack of children who could help them. What they really need are legal services, support groups and community activities for the most common needs, the study said.
During the survey, 2,560 lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgender people aged 50-95 years across the US were interviewed. The researchers found that participants in the study had a high level of disability, depression and loneliness, smoking and alcoholism compared with heterosexuals of similar age.
These elderly people are also at greater risk of social exclusion, which is associated with impairment of mental and physical health, cognitive impairment, chronic illness and premature death. Participants in the study were inclined to live alone and were less likely to be with a partner than heterosexuals who had social support and financial assistance from their children or spouses. Social connections in these groups of people play a key role, because unlike heterosexual people, most elderly lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgender people rely on their partners and friends of the same age.
Stories of persecution and discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity also contribute to poor health. The study showed that 80% were victims of discrimination at least once during their life, including verbal and physical violence, threats of physical violence. 21% of the respondents said that they were dismissed from work because of their alleged sexual orientation or gender identity. Almost four out of ten thought about suicide in difficult life situations.
21% of respondents did not tell their doctors about their sexual orientation because of fear of receiving denial of medical services.
"The lack of openness about sexuality makes discussions about sexual health, the risk of breast or prostate cancer, hepatitis, HIV risk, hormonal therapy or other risk factors impossible," Fredriksen-Goldsen said.
Scientists have demonstrated the positive aspects of this study: "The elderly of these communities are more stable," says Fredriksen-Goldsen. Of the survey respondents, 91% reported meditation, and 82% reported regular visits to the gym. Almost all - 90% - felt good.