New training course launching: ‘LGBTQ+ Inclusivity in Ageing and Dementia’
The University of Stirling Dementia Services Development Centre (DSDC) are launching a new course entitled ‘LGBTQ+ Inclusivity in Ageing and Dementia’.
The course will look at topics such as historical discrimination, unconscious bias and celebrating diversity. It is intended to support health and social care staff to better understand the needs of the ageing LGBTQ+ community.
David Wilson-Wynne, Co-designer of the course and Senior Dementia Consultant at the Dementia Services Development Centre, says:
“Ageing for the LGBTQ+ individual brings unique challenges. A lifetime of marginalisation can create mistrust in healthcare systems, and if they have dementia these feelings can be exacerbated and make them feel even more vulnerable. These are all issues we aim to address with the new course.”
Another Co-designer of the course, John Bond, says:
“There is a growing body of research to show that LGBTQ+ people affected by dementia do not receive an acceptable level of care. Despite the positive efforts of some organisations, services are still very patchy and unreliable, and certainly not fit for the 21st century. This course is both timely and overdue.”
‘LGBTQ+ Inclusivity in Ageing and Dementia’ launches on 27 March 2025, with a further date of 12 June 2025 also available to book. You can find out more here: https://www.dementia.stir.ac.uk/newsblog/addressing-the-unmet-needs-of-older-lgbtq-individuals-and-those-living-with-dementia
John Bond has kindly written a blog for Dementia Community Voices entitled, ‘Promoting Inclusivity in Dementia Care: Supporting LGBTQ+ Staff.’ You can read the blog here: https://journalofdementiacare.co.uk/promoting-inclusivity-in-dementia-care-supporting-lgbtq-staff