Citation

Putney JM, Keary S, Hebert N, Krinsky L, Halmo R. J. Gerontol. Soc. Work 2018; 61(8): 887-907.

Affiliation

Simmons College School of Social Work , Boston , Massachusetts , USA.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2018, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/01634372.2018.1508109

PMID

30102141

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: Older lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) adults are a vulnerable yet resilient population who face unique stressors as they foresee health decline. This paper presents the results of a study about community-dwelling LGBT older adults' anticipated needs and fears related to nursing homes and assisted living.

METHODS: This qualitative study collected data through seven focus groups. The sample (N = 50) consisted of LGBT-identified adults age 55 and over. We used an inductive, thematic analysis approach to data analysis.

RESULTS: Participants seek an inclusive environment where they will be safe and feel connected to a community. They fear dependence on healthcare providers, dementia, mistreatment, and isolation. Importantly, these fears can lead to identity concealment and psychological distress, including suicide ideation.

DISCUSSION: This study adds to the existing literature about the worries of older LGBT adults as they anticipate long-term care. The results suggest that older LGBT adults seek LGBT-inclusive residential care settings that encompass two distinct yet related aspects of LGBT-affirmative care: the procedural (e.g. culturally competent skills and knowledge of practitioners) and the implicit (e.g. the values and mission of the organization). This paper identifies implications for practice, policy, and training.

Language: en

Keywords

LGBT; Qualitative; long-term care; quality of life; skilled nursing