Thread by @Openly

❓ Are we facing a trans ageing crisis?

🇺🇸 Around 1 in 200 Americans aged 65 and over are trans.

🏳️‍⚧️ As the first generation of trans people reaches old age, healthcare systems are unprepared.

🌈 For #TransAwarenessWeek, we spoke to trans people about growing old. 🧵

🔴 Social isolation
🔴 Housing discrimination
🔴 Lack of safe medical spaces
🔴 ...and much more.

👵 The challenges trans elders face are often similar to those faced by trans people of all ages, but exacerbated as they get older, says Kylie Madhav, senior director at @sageusa.

📽️ Elizabeth Coffey was a star in the early films of cult film-maker John Waters.

🏥 While breaking ground for trans representation on screen, she faced rejection when seeking medical care.

💊 Later in life, hormone replacement therapy has caused issues, she told @Openly.

🩺 "Very few people have to call their new doctor and ask if they're going to respect me for who I am."

✈️ Randi Robertson is a U.S. Air Force veteran and now works as a commercial pilot, but is scared about what lies ahead when she might not be fully independent.

🏥 More than one out of 10 hospitals in the U.S. are faith-based, according to the @ahahospitals.

🥼 Often based in rural areas where alternatives are limited, some trans elders might have no other option than to access care where they might not be accepted.

🇺🇸 But across America, trans people are establishing close-knit networks where information about affirming doctors and care is being shared.

🚫 In a @LambdaLegal study, almost one-fifth of trans people reported being refused care outright by medical providers.

🏠 Trans elders are more likely to need residential care as chronic illnesses and high rates of mental health issues are linked to discrimination.

💵 With an ageing trans population, there are also increasing opportunities to fill the gap in the market.
openlynews.com/i/?id=4ad6f631…

🔴 However, growing older is not just about facing medical issues.

🚨 At an average age of 52, women already start to feel invisible, according to a @gransnet survey..

🧓 Being part of an often stigmatised minority can lead to an even deeper feeling of being overlooked.

🗣️ The situation for trans elders depends on geographies, says Madhav.

📄 In 2017, California passed a bill that would protect LGBTQ+ people in long-term care facilities – but it was struck down.

🏳️‍🌈 @POTUS has vowed to protect LGBTQ+ people against healthcare discrimination.

❓ So, what needs to be done?

📢 Coffey has a clear message: "I'm tired of thoughts and prayers. I want action and legislation."

🏳️‍⚧️ Do you know what services are available for trans elders where you live?

👇 Share with us below!