| dc.description.abstract | There is an almost complete dearth of research on the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual,
and transgender (LGBT) elders in South Africa. This study was a qualitative exploration through focus group discussions of the lived experiences of 22 LGBT people over
50 years of age in the Western Cape and Gauteng provinces of South Africa. Given
high levels of poverty and inequality in South Africa, findings from a thematic analysis
of participants’ narratives foregrounded surprisingly strong themes of inclusion and
belonging despite the structural challenges faced by many in South Africa. While
narratives of marginalization and exclusion were present, these were juxtaposed
with reports of belonging and inclusion in families, communities, through friendship
networks, and in health care. Findings indicate that, while experiences of homophobia
and transphobia are real among LGBTelders in South Africa, participants experience
agency, support, and relatively high reported levels of social belonging as they age. | en_US |
