Ageing and the LGBTI+ community: a case study of Australian care policy

Abstract

Sex, intimacy and relational needs are fundamental to wellbeing across the lifespan. For those who are older and identify as LGBTI+ there is a greater sense of invisibility which undermines and inhibits supportive relational care. This chapter argues for LGBTI+ inclusive older people’s care services with a view to recognising and supporting the relational needs of the LGBTI+ community. This chapter considers the broad themes which emerged from discussion with key stakeholders in Australia when undertaking a Churchill Fellowship. The themes identify core components which were integral when creating LGBTI+ inclusive care services in Australia. The themes National Drive, Organisational Desire and Community Benefits and Examples of Good Practice offer evidence of the legislative changes, how organisations implemented change and examples of good practice from an Australian perspective.