LGBT Friendly Home Care for Older Australians
Finding the right home care provider is important for all seniors. For many gay seniors, it is also about finding a provider who respects their identity, relationships, history and life experiences.
The best home care providers create an environment where clients can be themselves without fear of judgement or having to explain who they are.
What makes a Good Home Care Provider for Gay Seniors?
Respect for your identity
Clients should never feel the need to hide who they are.
Recognition of your relationships
Partners, spouses and chosen family should be treated with the same respect as any other family member.
Inclusive staff training
Care teams should understand the experiences and unique concerns of older LGBT Australians.
Client-centred care
Services should be based on your preferences, routines and goals.
Clear Communication
You should feel comfortable discussing your needs without fear of judgement
Why Older LGBT Australians sometimes delay seeking support
Previous experiences with discrimination
Fear of losing independence
Concern about needing to “go back in the closet”. This is a common worry gay seniors face when moving into residential care.
Worry about judgement from Support Workers
How Bannister In Home Care Supports LGBT Clients
Person-centred care
Respect for relationships
Choice of Support Workers
Flexible Services
Strong complaint resolution process
Services Available
We primarily support older clients who receive funding from Support at Home and Home Care Packages, however we also help private clients, older NDIS participants and insurance clients with access to the following services
Allied Health Services and more
Frequently Asked Questions from LGBT Seniors
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Absolutely. Home care services are available to all eligible older Australians, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity or relationship status. Whether you live alone, with a same-sex partner, or with family members, your care and support plan should be tailored to your individual needs, goals and preferences.
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Yes. If you would like your partner involved, they can participate in care planning discussions, service reviews and ongoing decision-making about your support. Many clients choose to involve their partner or a trusted family member to help ensure their care reflects their wishes and lifestyle.
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Only if you choose to share that information. Some clients feel comfortable discussing their identity and relationships openly, while others prefer to keep certain aspects of their personal life private. Our role is to respect your choices and provide care in a way that makes you feel comfortable, safe and supported. That being said, we would never send someone to your home that we didn’t think accepted your orientation.
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Yes. Building trust with the people who support you is important. If you ever feel uncomfortable with a support worker for any reason, you can discuss your concerns with your Care Partner. We will work with you to find a more suitable match wherever possible, because everyone deserves to feel respected and at ease in their own home.
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