Why inclusion matters

In this guest blog, Professor Judith Sixsmith, from IncludeAge at the University of Dundee, explores the value of older LGBT+ people and older people with learning disabilities in everyday communities.

Inclusion is not just a buzzword. It’s a fundamental human right. For older LGBT+ people and older people with learning disabilities, being included in the places and spaces of their everyday communities is essential for both personal well-being and social cohesion. However, the importance of this inclusion cannot be fully understood without recognising the historical and ongoing discrimination these groups have faced.

Many older LGBT+ people have lived through times when their very identities were criminalised or stigmatised. The fear of rejection, persecution, or violence has shaped their lives and often led to isolation. Similarly, older people with learning disabilities have historically been excluded from mainstream society, facing institutionalisation, marginalisation, and a lack of autonomy. These past experiences can leave deep scars, making the need for inclusive communities not just a matter of convenience, but one of social justice.

Ageism, discrimination based on age, is another important barrier faced by older people in today's society. Rather than recognising the rich life experiences, wisdom, and contributions older people can bring to their communities, negative stereotypes about ageing are more often seen, and these portray older people as less capable, less valuable, dependent or even invisible. These attitudes can impact access to services, employment opportunities, and social participation.

Working towards more inclusive communities requires a dismantling of the social norms that devalue older people to make sure they are seen, heard, and respected. It also requires a recognition of the diversity of older people. Ageism intersects with LGBT+ identities and different forms of disability, exacerbating experiences of exclusion. An older LGBT+ person with a learning disability, for example, may face compounded discrimination based on their age, their sexual orientation or gender identity and their learning disability. Recognising these overlapping identities is essential in understanding the unique challenges they encounter and ensuring that inclusion efforts address the full spectrum of their experiences. These interconnected factors need to be considered if efforts to create inclusive spaces are to be successful, otherwise the most marginalised members of our communities’ risk being overlooked.

In terms of the use and experience of everyday community places and spaces, research shows that both older LGBT+ people and older people with learning disabilities continue to face harassment and, in some cases, violence. At the same time as tackling health conditions, mobility challenges, cognitive decline, constrictions of social circles and digital exclusion, all of which can serve to further marginalise older people. Taken together, these difficulties can deter them from accessing public spaces, community activities, and essential services. When people feel unsafe or unwelcome, when lack of tolerance for who they are is apparent, and the effort of ‘getting out of the front door’ is a social, psychological and physical deterrent, they are more likely to withdraw. This can lead to further isolation, poorer mental health, and a diminished quality of life.

Inclusive communities have the power to transform lives. When older LGBT+ people and older people with learning disabilities are actively welcomed and supported and ageism, sexism and ableism are jointly challenged. A sense of belonging and validation is fostered. This inclusion helps to combat loneliness, promotes better mental and physical health, and strengthens social connections. It also challenges wider societal prejudices, helping to break down stereotypes and build a more compassionate society.