Advancing Gerontological Health Research With Sexual and Gender Minorities Across the Globe

J Gerontol Nurs. 2022 Apr;48(4):13-20. doi: 10.3928/00989134-20220304-03. Epub 2022 Apr 1.

Abstract

The current article presents results of a scoping review of international research on the health and health care needs of sexual and gender minority (SGM) older adults. Electronic databases and related resources were used to identify empirical and review studies published during the past 10 years. We reviewed 33 peer-reviewed articles from 19 countries. Findings were organized using the SGM Health Disparities Research Framework, which highlights factors at individual, interpersonal, community, and societal levels that impact health. Overall, historic and current environmental factors, including stigma, discrimination, and social exclusion, played an important role in SGM older adults' health, health care access, and use of related aging and social services. There is a critical need for training and future research, and health professionals are needed to advance gerontological health and health care research and improve the health and care of SGM older adults globally. [Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 48(4), 13-20.].

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Delivery of Health Care
  • Health Personnel
  • Humans
  • Sexual Behavior
  • Sexual and Gender Minorities*
  • Social Stigma