Aging Veterans in Canada: Addressing diverse needs through intersectional health care

This article emphasizes the need to consider diverse identities and experiences when shaping health policies, research, and services for older Veterans in Canada. As the Veteran population ages, health needs become increasingly complex, influenced by military service and personal factors such as age, gender, culture, and social background. Veterans include individuals across a wide age range, many facing service-related health challenges. National reports highlight the importance of trauma-informed and culturally sensitive care, particularly for historically under-served groups such as women, Indigenous Peoples, racialized communities, and 2SLGBTQIA+ Veterans. Intersectionality helps explain how overlapping identities - like race, gender, income, and disability - affect access to care and health outcomes. Applying this lens ensures services are inclusive and responsive to all Veterans. Recent Veterans Affairs Canada assessments show progress in incorporating diverse perspectives but note persistent gaps in reaching marginalized groups. This article calls for inclusive research, informed policies, and provider training to guarantee equitable care. Recognizing the full range of Veteran identities is essential to building a health system that supports well-being throughout their lives.