Trans Women’s Perceptions of Residential Aged Care in Australia

Abstract

Abstract Many older people in trans communities in Australia and elsewhere have experienced long histories of violence and discrimination in the health and social care sectors, making some of them fearful of interacting with contemporary health and social care providers. This study explored older trans women’s perceptions of these services. It involved a qualitative, thematic analysis of semi-structured, one-on-one audio-recorded interviews with ten trans women aged sixty years and older in Australia. Participants expressed a number of concerns about using residential facilities for older people in Australia, including potential for abuse and discrimination as a result of being trans, and not having access to appropriate treatments. Participants indicated a range of alternatives in using services, such as renovating the home, relocating to areas with greater access to trans-inclusive services and potential euthanasia. Participants perceived that service providers were not adequately trained for trans and gender diverse needs, and highlighted a number of ways aged care services could better support the trans and gender diverse community. The findings provide important information to assist health and social care professionals, including social workers, as well as residential care service providers, in supporting the health and well-being of older trans women.