LGBT+ concerns of ageing and accessing aged care services in Australia: A cross-sectional study

People older than 65 years are anticipated to comprise a steadily increasing proportion of the Australian population. This older adult population is also made up of other sub-populations that may experience similar, different or additional needs to the 'average' older adult, such as LGBT+ people. Given the well-documented history of oppression, stigma and discrimination, research is critically needed to understand how to best support the concerns and needs of populations such as LGBT+ people.

The present cross-sectional study aimed to explore the concerns of ageing and accessing aged care services among 171 LGBT+ people in Australia.

The results revealed that LGBT+ people were most concerned about their health and physical functioning, including feelings of isolation, loneliness and abandonment as they age. The results also indicated a range of specific concerns for accessing aged care services, including feeling respected and service quality and discrimination, particularly from religiously run organisations.

Despite a relatively small and homogenous sample, this study was able to identify important beliefs and experiences held by this cohort to help shape advocacy, policy, procedures and education.