In her own words: understanding the health needs of older lesbians. (3rd September 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Candrian, Carey; Wright, Leslie; Callwood, Agnes; Condolora, Julia; Kuka, Kari; Sills, Janelle; Thiele, Pamela; Tropeano, Laurel; Kline, Danielle; Mullen, Rebecca
• Is Part Of: Journal of women & aging. Volume 34:Number 5(2022)
• Page Start: 596
• Page End: 604
• Publication Date: 2022-09-03
• Subjects: Older lesbians -- lesbian health disparities -- lesbian health needs -- lesbian qualitative study; Social work with older people -- United States -- Periodicals; Social work with women -- United States -- Periodicals; Older women -- United States -- Periodicals; 618.97
• DOI: 10.1080/08952841.2021.1952039
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0895-2841

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This project illuminates the unique struggles and barriers lesbians face. A community advisory board (CAB) was developed and 31 in-depth interviews were conducted with lesbians aged 56–84 in the Rocky Mountain region. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed, and coded using critical discourse analysis. Themes included: a culture of identity-hiding; lack of recognition and discrimination in health care; channeling passion, fear, and anger into action; concerns about aging; and identified health needs and opportunities. There is a need for innovative and equitable services that understand the barriers and struggles that older lesbian adults face so they can receive high-quality care.