Narratives of older lesbian and gay persons : exploring disparities within social and health care support in Malta

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to uncover the stories of older LG persons, and seeks to analyse how this cohort go about their everyday lives when living in Malta, in particular where health care and social support are concerned. The collection of six narratives, administered by using the Biographical Narrative Interpretative Method (BNIM) formed the basis of this qualitative narrative study, which provided an in-depth look into the lives of older lesbian and gay persons (LG). As the ageing population increases, so will the ageing lesbian, gay, bisexual, transsexual and intersex (LGBTI) population, a situation which shall bring with it different realities with specific needs. Even though in Malta the social and health care support for older persons is available to all Maltese nationals, irrespective of any form of intersection, it is worth noting that this system is built round a heteronormative framework. Although many of the older LG require the same basic needs with regards to health and social support, they may lack community support, understanding on behalf of health care professionals, as well as others, who, due to homophobic tendencies may be unwilling to serve them. By adopting a narrative methodology this study highlighted the new phenomenon of the gayby boomers, namely that for the first-time social policy is faced with LG persons who are affirmative and are seeking recognition, understanding and integration in older age. These narratives were later analysed using a thematic analysis. Issues which emerged show that there is an unconscious conflict between living the life of an older LG person, and the inherent need to conform to heteronormativity. The testimony of the participants showed that confirming to a heteronormative reality may be the most effective route of securing the stability and wellbeing which they desire in their old age, such as the availability of support services without judgement, and a healthcare system which is better targeted towards their needs. However, at the same time, participants also felt the need for more visibility within local gay spaces in order to alleviate loneliness. It resulted that the denial of their true selves arose in conjunction with a fear of living their later life in institutionalised care which is built around a heteronormative culture. This study brought to light the lacunae in Maltese policy that would better enable older LG persons age in a safe and dignified place that is free from discrimination and abuse. Findings also elicited ways in which policy recognition could have a ripple effect onto service provision, an area where understanding of, and sensitivity training towards, the lives of LG persons is paramount. As a recommendation, future research ought to inquire into the lives of other older identities which fall under the full LGBTI spectrum, in order to take into account realities that go beyond the gay and lesbian identity.