Older LGBTQ+ people and the equality/human rights implications of inequalities in older age health/social care provision

The legal recognition of the human rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer and other diverse sexual and gender identities (LGBTQ+) in some global regions has not always transferred to the reality in the provision of health and social care services particularly affecting the ageing population. Some LGBTQ+ people still live in societies that support discrimination and inequality, which is further complicated by the intersections with ageism and other marginalised identities. These are compounded by additional factors documented in cumulating research evidence on LGBTQ+ health inequalities and the ageing experience. This chapter draws on academic and practice knowledge about LGBTQ+ health inequalities impacting care experiences in later life. Writing from the UK, we engage with international research and literature, provide some examples of recognition, equality and protection through the UK legal framework and discuss the implications for equality and rights to care and support services for older adults in response.