LGBTQIA+ Health Consultations

Dementia Advocates who identify as lesbian, gay and bisexual recently took part in a focus group on the National LGBTQIA+ Health Action Plan. 

This was an opportunity for Advocates to share their health and wellbeing experiences with the Department of Health and Aged Care, and their insights into priorities for the National Action Plan. 

Advocates spoke about a wide range of issues including the impact of discrimination, trauma, ageism, ableism and social isolation on the LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, Queer and Asexual) community. 

There was discussion about community organising and the importance of networks as a source of support and community connection. All the Advocates involved in the consultations had either organised or participated in groups and networks in their local communities. 

There was also discussion about rights and vulnerabilities. LGBTQIA+ people living with dementia have a right to receive culturally safe care by a compassionate, trained and qualified health and care workforce. 

The Department of Health and Aged Care has now finished consulting with LGBTQIA+ people and organisations around the country and will finalise the National Action Plan. 

We hope that the National Action Plan will reflect the experiences of LGBTQIA+ people living with dementia and carers and build on the collective strengths of the community to improve health and wellbeing outcomes.