πΊπΈ Around 1 in 200 Americans aged 65 and over are trans.
π³οΈββ§οΈ As the first generation of trans people reaches old age, healthcare systems are unprepared.
π For #TransAwarenessWeek, we spoke to trans people about growing old. π§΅
π΄ Social isolation
π΄ Housing discrimination
π΄ Lack of safe medical spaces
π΄ ...and much more.
π΅ 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.
π½οΈ Elizabeth Coffey was a star in the early films of cult film-maker John Waters.
π₯ While breaking ground for trans representation on screen, she faced rejection when seeking medical care.
π Later in life, hormone replacement therapy has caused issues, she told @Openly.
βοΈ 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.
π₯ More than one out of 10 hospitals in the U.S. are faith-based, according to the @ahahospitals.
π₯Ό 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.
πΊπΈ But across America, trans people are establishing close-knit networks where information about affirming doctors and care is being shared.
π« In a @LambdaLegal study, almost one-fifth of trans people reported being refused care outright by medical providers.
π Trans elders are more likely to need residential care as chronic illnesses and high rates of mental health issues are linked to discrimination.
π΅ With an ageing trans population, there are also increasing opportunities to fill the gap in the market. openlynews.com/i/?id=4ad6f631β¦
π΄ However, growing older is not just about facing medical issues.
π¨ At an average age of 52, women already start to feel invisible, according to a @gransnet survey..
π§ Being part of an often stigmatised minority can lead to an even deeper feeling of being overlooked.
π£οΈ The situation for trans elders depends on geographies, says Madhav.
π In 2017, California passed a bill that would protect LGBTQ+ people in long-term care facilities β but it was struck down.
π³οΈβπ @POTUS has vowed to protect LGBTQ+ people against healthcare discrimination.
β So, what needs to be done?
π’ Coffey has a clear message: "I'm tired of thoughts and prayers. I want action and legislation."
π³οΈββ§οΈ Do you know what services are available for trans elders where you live?
π Share with us below!
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πΆ Let's take a look at some of this year's queer nominations. π§΅
π΅ @brandicarlile is one of the most nominated artists this year β coming in just behind @Beyonce and @kendricklamar, and being tied with @Adele on seven nominations.
πΏ For the second time, she might snap up the coveted 'Album of the Year'.
π @RandyRainbow has been nominated for his first-ever Grammy.
π§ The comedian and songwriter is up for the 'Best Comedy Album' award for 'A Little Brains, a Little Talent'.
ποΈ From the Iliad to the Odyssey, Lesbos has had a central part in Ancient Greek history.
βοΈ One of its most famous inhabitants was the 6th century B.C. poet Sappho, whose lyrical poems explored her love of women and their beauty β sometimes even venturing into the erotic.
βπΏ Black, British and queer β but often overlooked.
π¬π§ It's #BlackHistoryMonth in the UK and we're looking at those who shaped Black British queer history - and those still changing the world today.
π Here are some of the Black #LGBTQ+ pioneers you should know. π§΅
Ken "Snakehips" Johnson (1914-1941)
π· A jazz bandleader and dancer, Johnson was a leading figure in Black British music in the '30s and '40s.