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Coming Out to Care: Caregivers of Gay and Lesbian Seniors in Canada

Correspondence: Address correspondence to Shari Brotman, McGill University School of Social Work, 3506 University Street #300, Montreal, QC H3A 2A7 Canada. E-Mail: shari.brotman{at}mcgill.ca

Purpose: This article reports on the findings of a study whose purpose was to explore the experiences of caregivers of gay and lesbian seniors living in the community and to identify issues that emerged from an exploration of access to and equity in health care services for these populations. Design and Methods: The study used a qualitative methodology based upon principles of grounded theory in which open-ended interviews were undertaken with 17 caregivers living in three different cities across Canada. Results: Findings indicated several critical themes, including the impact of felt and anticipated discrimination, complex processes of coming out, the role of caregivers, self-identification as a caregiver, and support. Implications: We consider several recommendations for change in light of emerging themes, including expanding the definition of caregivers to be more inclusive of gay and lesbian realities, developing specialized services, and advocating to eliminate discrimination faced by these populations.

Key Words: Gay and lesbian aging • Caregiving • Health care • Access and equity • Home care • Elderly