Chapter 4 - Abuse of lesbian, gay, transgender, and bisexual elders

Abstract

As with all oppressed groups, older LGTB (lesbian, gay, transgender, and bisexual) individuals have internalized negative feelings about their own sexual orientation or gender identity. Some LGTB people entered into heterosexual marriages in their earlier years either because it was expected of them or as an attempt to convince themselves that they were not gay or lesbian. For some it was an attempt to ignore their gender identity concerns. Some older individuals may only be coming to terms with their sexual orientation or gender identity in their later years. At great cost to themselves, others have denied their sexual orientation or gender identity and have even exposed to other LGTB people to divert interest in their orientation. Such actions are examples of both homophobia and internalized homophobia. Older closeted LGTB people can be exploited by children, caregivers, and others who are cognizant of their sexual orientation and/or gender identity. Gay men and transsexuals may be subject to exploitation by younger members of LGTB communities. Loneliness and ageism in the gay community provide fertile ground for exploitation. On the other hand, older gay men frequently reach out to younger men in the community, and such relationships can be interpreted as exploitation by workers.