A national survey conducted last year by Toronto-based, Forum Research, found that 2.6 % of Canadians aged 55 or older identified themselves as being lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgendered (LGBT)
This group of seniors often doesn’t have the traditional support services surrounding most heterosexual seniors have, such as spouses, or children. In other cases, openly gay elders have been rejected by both their immediate and extended families. According to a US advocacy group, LGBT seniors are twice as likely to age alone, over four times more likely not to have children, and five times less likely to access services geared towards seniors.
In addition, many LGBT seniors do not disclose their orientation to medical staff or service providers for fear of possible victimization.
A 2010 report by the City of Vancouver’s social policy division found LGBT seniors face issues not experienced by their heterosexual counterparts, making it more difficult for them to navigate the long-term care system.
“Some seniors have been closeted their entire lives and fear coming out, some have been rejected by their families and some are experiencing discrimination and homophobia in various settings, including within the home support and residential care systems,” the report found.
A private firm announced plans a few years ago to build a residential complex for LGBT seniors in Vancouver on the west coast, but has yet to acquire funds.
In Halifax, Nova Scotia, the city is now reviewing plans for a seniors complex that would include members of the LGBT community.
In Toronto,Ontario, where Canada’s largest LGBT community is to be found, Fudger House is a senior’s residence in the city that has become a pioneer in creating a positive environment for LGBT seniorsFudger House resident Alf Roberts, who “came out” when he was 80, says he feels comfortable in this environment. He notes, “it’s probably something an older gay worries about, -Where am I going to live? Where will I be accepted?”
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