Lesbian and gay seniors in Canada are at risk in the health-care system because of marginalization and discrimination, says a study released Tuesday.

Many homosexual seniors are reluctant to voice their concerns, file complaints or even reveal their names, according to the four-year study led by researchers at McGill University in Montreal.

"What results is a lack of recognition of gay and lesbian seniors and their caregivers, and a system that is unprepared to address their unique needs and realities," the study's authors say in their report, The Health and Social Service Needs of Gay and Lesbian Seniors and Their Families.

The report notes the situation is particularly difficult for homosexual people who are 60 or older because they have lived many – if not all – of their years dealing with hostility and discrimination.

"It cannot be understated that gay and lesbian seniors who grew up prior to the era of gay liberation face considerable obstacles to accessing health care," said Prof. Shari Brotman of the McGill School of Social Work, one of the lead researchers.

Many still scarred by stigma of 'mental illness'

The study notes that many seniors remember a time when being gay was considered a mental illness. As a result, they won't discuss their sexual orientation with anyone in the health-care system.

"People were once forced into psychiatric institutions," said Bill Ryan, the other principal investigator from McGill's School of Social Work.

"So going to a doctor was a very fearful experience for many people."

The study also found that partners, children and friends of gay seniors have a difficult time getting proper care for their loved ones.

Some seniors reported that staff at seniors residences and care facilities accepted homosexuality. But they said some of their fellow residents weren't as tolerant, creating strain and hardship.

The study was based on interviews with 38 seniors, 31 health-care providers and 21 caregivers.

Its recommendations include:

  • Promoting and celebrating seniors' diversities in social agencies.
  • Developing sensitive outreach programs.
  • Creating opportunities for like-minded seniors to meet socially.
  • Establishing training programs for health-care, homecare and social-service workers.

The study was done by McGill with research partners in Vancouver and Halifax.