Hidden and ignored: Older sexual and gender minorities in New Zealand

Abstract

This article explores the experiences of a frequently ignored and underrepresented population in social work research – older sexual and gender minorities. Reporting on findings from a larger research project with older LGBTQ+ people in New Zealand, thirty-one participants between the ages of 60 and 80 were interviewed about their experiences of social connectedness, stigma, and discrimination. Findings highlight that older sexual and gender minorities were twice made invisible. They felt excluded by mainstream society based on their age, as well as their sexual and gender identities. Implications include a need to incorporate intersectional perspectives when working with both older adults and members of the LGBTQ+ community. Social work practitioners also need to consider the multifaceted and compounding identities of their clients with diverse experiences.Keywords: sexual and gender minorities; older adults; New Zealand; invisibility; social work