We Speak a Different Language: End-of-Life and Bereavement Experiences of Older Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Women Who Have Lost a Spouse or Partner

Abstract

We examine the end-of-life (EOL) experiences, communications, and grief support during and after their loved one’s death of older lesbian, gay, and bisexual women (LGB) ages 60 to 85 who have lost a spouse or partner. Queer gerontology was used as a theoretical framework, and descriptive qualitative analytical methods were used to discern themes. Through semi-structured interviews with a purposive sample of 16 participants, we identified two main themes: Gathering the Women and Compassionate Care. Although older LGB women may have some similar support needs as non-LGB adults, other needs are distinct but often unmet. While our participants’ interactions with health care professionals were overtly positive, there was often a lack of communication about grief resources, including lesbian and women-specific grief groups. Overall researchers, policymakers, and practitioners should be mindful of the importance of fully integrating and including populations into their care practices to avoid creating systems of superficial tolerance.