The power of story: Bringing 2SLGBTQ+ digital stories into gerontology settings

Two-spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and queer or questioning (2SLGBTQ+) older adults are underrepresented in gerontology research and education, impacting the preparedness of health and social care students and professionals working with the diverse aging population. To address this lack of representation of 2SLGBTQ+ older adults in gerontology education, this study explored the use of digital stories as tools for knowledge mobilization and social justice. Digital stories are short videos that pair audio recordings with visuals, including videos, photographs, or artwork. To conduct the study, the research team worked alongside 2SLGBTQ+ older adults to create a suite of three digital stories. These stories were presented at various educational and professional settings in gerontology, and survey and open-feedback responses (n = 147) were gathered from the audience on their perceived impact. Viewers included students, researchers, decision-makers, stakeholders, and citizens. Content analysis was used to analyze the data. From the analysis, digital stories showed the potential to increase viewers' awareness and understanding of 2SLGBTQ+ aging experiences. The format was particularly significant in their learning and enhancing the connection to the content and the storytellers. The findings also suggest that digital stories showed the potential to impact policy and practice for 2SLGBTQ+ communities.