Deconstructing Queer/Trans Aging: A Critical Discourse Analysis

This Major Research Paper (MRP) examines the recent discourse around LGBTQ older adults and aging that has started to be incorporated into Toronto’s senior care ostensibly to promote inclusion and diversity. Applying postmodernism, queer theory and critical whiteness studies as the theoretical framework, this MRP conducts a critical discourse analysis of (1) a sample of articles on older adults and aging from a Toronto-based LGBTQ-focused newspaper and (2) a sample of a LGBTQ2S cultural competency manual from Toronto’s city-run long-term care homes. The analysis of the findings demonstrates a white-centered, homogenizing and depoliticized discourse. The hope is to push conversations of queer/trans aging beyond homonormative models of senior care.