Specific health needs for LGTBQ seniors

Post author By AQ Hui
Post date 12 January 2026

Authors

Yesh Rai

Thiru Yogaparan

Publication

2018

Abstract

Canada has had a history of prejudice and negative attitudes against individuals who identify as LGBT. For instance, homosexuality was not decriminalized in Canada until 1969, and it was treated as a mental disorder until 1973 (14). LGBT seniors grew up in a time when same-sex relationships were stigmatized and criminalized, and non-disclosure reigned. As Canada’s 65+ population continues to grow, this review is intended to reveal some of the hardships and unique needs facing Canadian LGBT seniors today.

Link to research

Citation

Rai, Y., & Yogaparan, T. (2018). Specific health needs for LGBTQ seniors. University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.  https://thehub.utoronto.ca/geriatrics/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Geriatrics-HUB-LGBTQ-seniors-matters-the-most3.pdf

Open Access

Yes

Tags Healthcare access

Egale is Canada’s leading national organization for 2SLGBTQI people and issues. Egale aims to improve the lives of 2SLGBTQI people in Canada and to enhance the global response to 2SLGBTQI issues by informing public policy, inspiring cultural change, and promoting human rights and inclusion through research, education, awareness and legal advocacy.

National Institute on Ageing is a Toronto Metropolitan University think tank focused on the realities of Canada’s ageing population. It works to enhance successful ageing across the life course and to make Canada the best place to grow up and grow old.

This project was supported by: