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“He went back into the closet”: Older LGBTI people´s interactions with health and social care in the Nordic countries


The situation for LGBTI people in the Nordic countries has changed radically in recent decades. This has resulted in increased access to social and legal rights, enhanced protection against discrimination, increased visibility and more opportunities for community. Nevertheless, studies show that a gender identity or sexual orientation that does not follow the conventional norm still significantly increases the risk of ill health.

How do these conditions affect older LGBTI people’s opportunities in ageing and what happens in contact with health and social care? The Nordic Council of Ministers has initiated a project that will contribute to increased knowledge about the living conditions and quality of life of older LGBTI people, especially in their encounter with health and social care. The report is based on 38 publications consisting of both quantitative and qualitative studies.

Updated 11 April 2024