Abstract:

Changing demographics & economic models in modern industrial countries have led to changes in the nature of the intergenerational contract, repositioning of the family as the site for care, & increasing privatization of welfare, housing, & health services for the aged. These shifts have important implications for access to services for lesbians & gays as they age, often in the absence of traditional family support. Here, needs & desires of 19 older lesbians ages 44-73 in Sydney, Australia, in relation to housing & health care are explored via focus group interviews. The results are discussed in relation to the intergenerational contract, policy shifts, & the social organizations of aged care in Australia.