[Resource] LGBTQ2S+ Seniors Community Response Network

LGBTQ2S+ stands for Lesbian, Gay Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and 2-Spirited. The “plus” (+) incorporates other possibilities like queer questioning, gender fluid, asexual, and pansexual. We also include allies and supporters of these communities.

It is conservatively estimated there are over 350,000 LGBTQ2S+ seniors living in Metro Vancouver area alone, but this group of seniors are both under counted and underserved. While many seniors and older adults face struggles with abuse, neglect, and self-neglect, seniors who identify as LGBTQ2S+ are disproportionally affected due to lifelong discrimination and stigma.

Community connections are especially important, as LGBTQ2S+ seniors and older adults are more likely to rely on care from a “found family” – such as neighbours or friends – rather than relying on support from their biological relatives.

Please visit the pages of our LGBTQ2S+ community response networks for more information:

• JQT Seniors Initiative Community Response Network
• LOVE LGBTQ2s Vancouver Island Community Response Network
• LOVE LGBTQ2s Lower Mainland Community Response Network

Documents

• Aging Out: Moving Towards Queer and Trans* Competent Care for Seniors – Qmunity
• Data on LGBTQ2S Housing Needs – Jacqueline Gahagan & the National LGBT Housing Matters Project Team 
• Developing Inclusive and Affirming Care – Island Health
• LGBT Housing Matters: Results of the Canadian LGBT Older Adults and Housing Project – Jacqueline Gahagan & Marco Redden
• LGBTQ2+ Seniors – Improving Care Presentation (2021)

Other Helpful Organizations

• QMUNITY

Other Web Links

• Aging with Pride – BC Care Providers Association
• Aging with Pride – West End Seniors’ Network
• Are we Equal in the Face of Aging? Challenges Faced by LGBTQ2 Older Adults – McMaster University
• Living OUT and Visibly Engaged (LOVE) Community Response Network (Facebook Community)
• Pride 2020: Trans Care – Island Health
• Prism Services – Vancouver Coastal Health
• Social Isolation of Seniors: A focus on LGBTQ Seniors in Canada – Employment and Social Development Canada
• The LGBTQI2S Dignity Project – Institute of Gender and Health