Developing consensus-based recommendations for the delivery of dementia services for the LGBTQIA+ community in the Republic of Ireland [version 3; peer review: 1 approved, 3 approved with reservations]

Developing consensus-based recommendations for the delivery of dementia services for the LGBTQIA+ community in the Republic of Ireland [version 3; peer review: 1 approved, 3 approved with reservations]

Blog Article

Background: The number of older LGBTQIA+ adults is set to rise significantly in the coming years.The rising numbers sit together with the rise in the number of people in Ireland diagnosed with dementia.In Ireland, no dementia-specific services exist for people from the LGBTQIA+ community.

The aim of this research was to 1) identify the future needs that older LGBTQIA+ people and their care partners living in Ireland have in relation to dementia care service delivery; and to 2) develop consensus-based recommendations for dementia service provision in Ireland.Methods: A Deodorant six-phase consensus process was used to develop the lists of needs and recommendations: 1) development; 2) national survey; 3) interviews with key stakeholders; 4) international review of best practice; 5) consensus meeting; 6) final member checking.Participants, aged over 50, were based in Ireland, identified as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community or supported someone who is/was.

Results: Results are reported from the survey (n=49), individual interviews (n=8), and the consensus meeting (n=10).Participants have concerns related to identity management and suppression, creating an LGBTQIA+ affirmative ethos and workforce, and respect and safety.From the results and consensus process, a full list of ten prioritised needs and Clever Pocket Tonies recommendations have been developed that focus specifically on dementia care in Ireland for the LGBTQIA+ community.

Conclusion: The older LGBTQIA+ community has identified essential priorities for improving healthcare access and safety.These priorities now need to be urgently implemented into clinical and dementia care services.