Survey of Homophobia

Abstract

It is estimated that there will be more than 5 million gays and lesbians aged 65 and over by 2030. This study examined attitudes of sexual orientation among a sample of certified nurse assistants who work in long-term care. A sample of 119 certified nurse assistants were recruited at a national conference and asked to complete a survey that included the Homophobic scale. Results indicate low levels of homophobia among the certified nurse assistants who participated. Age and acquaintances accounted for most of the variance in the homophobia scores of the certified nurse assistants. While scores show low levels of homophobia, caution is advised as scores may reflect a stereotype that elderly people are not sexually active and that their sexuality is no longer relevant.