Trajectories and status of transgender elderly across the world and in Spain: A narrative review

Abstract

Older trans people have been largely unaddressed both in the context of the LGBTIQ+ community and in studies on geriatrics and aging. This literature review compiles up-to-date information on transgender elders, providing a summary of the Spanish historical context in which trans people have been raised, and analyzes the areas in which to center possible courses of action and research on a global scale. The themes tackled are the presence of victimization and violence; the effects of medical transition, taking into account hormones and surgery, and other issues that affect trans people's health disproportionately or in unique ways compared to cis people; the social and familiar environment and its influence as a support system; the prevalence of mental health problems and their relationship with stigma and pathologization, as well as the resilience mechanisms developed to cope; the structural barriers in the access to employment, housing, and economic resources, as well as the current legislation; and the spiritual and planning issues that arise at the end of life. Lastly, proposals are offered for healthcare professionals and future researchers to engage with this population, not only in Spain but across the world.