15 2.1.8 Gender Sensitive Care

Sexuality  in the Older Adult

• Sexuality is the way we express ourselves physically and emotionally
• Aging can create changes in the way people express their sexuality
• Older adults may experience age-related challenges associated with their sexuality
• Health conditions/medications
• Chronic illnesses
• Medications
• Safe Sex^[1]

Culture and Gender Sensitive Care

Caring for Sexual and Gender Minority Older Adults:

• 2SLGBTQ older adults may be less open about their sexual orientation and gender identity in LTC, nursing homes and assisted living homes out of fear of discrimination or being mistreated
• Many older 2SLGBTQ adults will not disclose their gender identity or sexual orientation to healthcare providers due to previous discrimination or fear of refusal of care
• Creation of Safe and Inclusive LTC facilities^[2][3]