The Lived Experience of LGBT Older Persons in a Geriatric Home Facility

Saturday, 21 July 2018

Pearl Ed G. Cuevas, PhD, MAN, RN, FGNLA
School of Nursing, Centro Escolar University, Manila, Philippines

Purpose:

The study aim to unravel the life stories of LGBT people in the retirement facility, Home for the Golden Gays. Specifically, the study will answer the following questions:

  1. What are the health needs of the older LGBT adult?
  2. What concerns the older LGBT adult pertaining to their health and well-being?

Methods:

Ethnography describes and interprets cultural behavior. The type of ethnography to be used in this study is ethnonursing research. This approach involves prolonged immersion with members of the LGBT community at the Home for the Golden Gays. There is direct observation of the everyday life in the study participant’s natural setting and participation in their lifestyle and activities to the greatest extent possible.

Results:

Photovoice is a qualitative method used for community-based participatory research to document and reflect reality. It is an empowering and flexible process that combines photography with grassroots social action and is commonly used in the fields of community development, international development, public health, and education. In this regard, it is the health of the LGBT community. Participants include community members of all ages and status including those who are discriminated against due to language, gender, race, class and disability. Through their art, they bring new insights and perspectives that raise awareness of hidden or overlooked issues and aspects of the community.

Conclusion:

The Home for the Golden Gays is a non-profit organization. It was established in the mid 1970’s by LGBT rights activist and columnist Justo Justo. He founded a care facility in Pasay, Manila Philippines for the elderly and homeless gays. Its vision is to integrate gay people into retirement homes without having to face discrimination. Their goal is to provide gays and lesbians a community that ensures social acceptance for their choice of lifestyle through their old age. The facility is open to locals and foreigners and aims to provide staff and medical care practitioners who understand each retiree’s needs.

The Home for the Golden Gays is also called as an “adoption house for special elderlies”. It is located at 107 David Street, Pasay City, Philippines