Person-Centred Care for Older LGBT+ Adults – The Benefits of one to one Live-in Home Care.
How accessible are social care services to LGBT people?
LGBT elders may not be getting the care they need because they fear discrimination from their more conservative age mates. Opting for live-in care instead of entering a care home is one way for LGBT people to safeguard their dignity as they age.
Failures of the Residential Care System
Before 1967, homosexuality was illegal in the UK, reflecting the views of many people at the time. Unfortunately, discrimination against the LGBTQI+ (henceforth referred to as LGBT) community among some people of the older generation, leaving many LGBT people feeling unwelcome in aged care homes.
Older LGBT people are hesitant to enter care homes because they fear a return to hiding their identity. This fear is not unwarranted. Several media reports detail challenges faced by older LGBT people in care homes from residents and carers. The result of this pervasive discrimination is that many LGBT people who need care don’t receive it.
Home Care as a Haven for LGBT Elders
Live-in care offers an alternative option for LGBT people seeking care in an inclusive and supportive environment. Live-in carers who are equipped to help LGBT elders can act as advocates for those under their care.
Are you an ageing member of the LGBT community? Here’s how home live-in care can help you.
Live-in carers promote access to healthcare
According to a study by the University of Hertfordshire, LGBT elders are more likely to avoid seeking medical because of fear of discrimination. Because live-in carers stay with you in your home, you can freely discuss your medical concerns. They can also act as a health advocate for you during medical procedures and visits to your doctor.
Live-in care is especially beneficial to transgender elders. Transgender elders face unique medical challenges in their golden years like complications from hormone therapies and persistent misgendering by healthcare providers. Your live-in carer can advocate for you and ensure you receive dignified care from inclusive professionals.
Live-in carers offer companionship
Live-in carers are a constant presence in your home and offer friendship and support. Receiving care at home means you can continue going on outings, meeting friends and attending LGBT events with other senior citizens.
Live-in care helps you keep your independence
Opting for live-in care instead of residential care means you can live independently in your own home. Before assigning you a carer, the agency will assess your home. Changes will be recommended to help you move more freely in your home. Some examples are adding railings to the bathroom and adding an emergency contact system.
Carers help with everyday tasks like household chores, personal grooming and medication administration. The extra help around the house will help you remain independent and self-reliant.
The right live-in carer will give you the respect and care you deserve so you can live out your later years with dignity.
Although the number of LGBTQ elders will double in ten years, there are few if any existing care schemes with a focus on older LGBT residents. The same is true of care homes. That’s why we believe that live-in care is a great option for LGBT people who want care that meets their needs.