Grant: Applied Public Health Chair - 2SLGBTQI+ Older Adults

While 2-spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (2SLGBTQI+) older adults share some of the experiences and concerns of all aging Canadians, theirs are also informed by a unique context of social exclusions linked to their minority sexual orientations and/or gender identities. Sexual and gender diversity are important determinants of health that have been largely overlooked in previous research on aging. The proposed research focuses on three intersecting themes: 1) Promoting mental health and reducing social isolation for 2SLGBTQI+ older adults; 2) Beyond safety: Affirming and celebratory environments to grow old; and 3) Aging bodies, aging brains. The project will adopt a community-based approach by involving 2SLGBTQI+ older adults and community organizations throughout the research process, ensuring that the research is responsive, relevant, and useful to the needs and concerns of these communities. The research aims to identify and address the health disparities that affect 2SLGBTQI+ older adults, including higher rates of depression and anxiety as well as greater risk of chronic diseases and cognitive decline. The research will also explore the unique challenges that 2SLGBTQI+ older adults face as they age, including discrimination, social isolation, and lack of access to appropriate healthcare. The research findings will have significant implications for improving the health and well-being of 2SLGBTQI+ older adults in Canada. By addressing the unique social determinants of health that affect this population, this work will help reduce health disparities and promote health equity. It will also help to raise awareness of the health needs and concerns of 2SLGBTQI+ older adults, which is an important step towards ensuring that these needs are addressed in research, policy, programs, and services. Overall, this research will contribute to creating a more inclusive and equitable society for all Canadians.