For many LGBTQ+ people, ageing comes with a unique set of challenges and a profound sense of hard-won pride. Our elders lived through decades of stigma, criminalisation, police brutality, discrimination and the HIV/AIDS crisis. They survived in a world that often tried to erase, brutalise and scapegoat them. In doing so, they helped shape the rights, freedoms and community structures we benefit from today.

But for too long, LGBTQ+ elders were left out of conversations about ageing. Many entered older age without the support of children or traditional family structures. Others remained closeted in aged care services for fear of discrimination. Some experienced renewed isolation as partners and friends passed away, and community spaces shifted focus to younger generations.

In response, ACON, alongside advocates and community members, has worked to build an ageing response that centres respect, visibility and inclusion. We believe that everyone deserves to age with dignity, connection and pride.

Through the LOVE Project (Living Older Visibly and Engaged), ACON has led the way in researching and addressing the needs of LGBTQ+ people aged 55 and over. The project delivers social connection and healthy ageing events, digital literacy support, health and wellbeing resources, and informs sector-wide training to ensure aged care services are inclusive and affirming.

ACON also provides ageing-focused peer support and carer resources through our Community Support Network and Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme, as well as palliative care and end-of-life planning tools, all grounded in the realities of LGBTQ+ lives and histories. Whether someone came out decades ago or is exploring their identity later in life, they deserve care that reflects who they are.

We also honour the many LGBTQ+ people who did not get the chance to grow older, particularly those lost to AIDS-related illness or whose lives were cut short by violence and marginalisation. Their memory strengthens our resolve to ensure current and future generations can age safely, openly and with community.

From isolation to inclusion, silence to celebration, we are changing what it means to age as an LGBTQ+ person. Our elders carry our history, and they deserve a future where their strength, stories and contributions are recognised every step of the way.

Learn more about ACON’s ageing programs at loveproject.org.au.