Rainbow caregiver support group

Ian Stewart is a care partner to his mother, whom he has supported since 2017. He volunteers his time as a member of the Society’s Lived Experience Partner Program to help bring broader representation into the dementia community and breakdown misconceptions that exist around the disease. As an openly gay man and a caregiver, Ian believes that hearing about and participating in 2SLGBTQIA+ support groups cemented his relationship with the Alzheimer Society of B.C. 

Why do you think it is important to have dementia support specifically for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community?  

Having support tailored for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community is essential because many people in this community face unique challenges when caring for a loved one living with dementia. We may encounter ignorance or prejudice and face disrespect because of our values and relationships.  

In our society, gay men are often expected to take on caregiving responsibilities. In my experience, family members failed to see the immense emotional toll caregiving was taking and chose to ignore the struggles I faced and the pressures on my livelihood. This added stress and lack of family support can be isolating and diverts energy away from the care of the person living with dementia. Sharing my experiences amongst peer 2SLGBTQIA+ caregivers provided welcome respite and reaffirmation. 

What would you say to encourage a 2SLGBTQIA+ community member to join a 2SLGBTQIA+-specific support group? 

It’s a positive that we’re an online group, welcoming members from around the province. Consistently, our support group members make an all-the-more-pronounced effort to be welcoming and to support others, at all stages of being “out” or closeted. We value the chance to speak openly amongst 2SLGBTQIA+ peers. It is a judgement free space where despite our distinct identities, many common concerns are shared.