On Wednesday, August 18th, 2010, the Chicago Bridge hosted “The Transgender Senior: Views on Aging and the Elder Care System”. The topic was presented by Pamela McCann, a Public Health Administrator with the Chicago Department of Public Health, Office of LBGT Health. The event was graciously hosted by the National Association of Social Work- Illinois Chapter (NASW-IL) location. The NASW of Illinois is dedicated to the professional development of its members. Their beautiful conference space, set up for trainings and educational event such as the one hosted by the Bridge, shows their commitment. They also work to ensure the professional standards of their members and to promote sound policies in the field of social work.

VIEW POWERPOINT PRESENTATION of this event: Chicago_Bridge_Elder_TG

VIEW WORKING BIBLIOGRAPHY ON TRANSGENDER AGING thanks for Vanessa Fabre Working Bibliography (Trans-related, Trans Aging)

These professional standards were certainly enhanced through McCann’s presentation. Twenty individuals were in attendance, some that were new to the Chicago Bridge Events and some seasoned members. McCann was joined by Vanessa Fabbre who is hopes to pursue writing her dissertation on transgender seniors at the University of Chicago’s SSA. This presentation discussed a research study that explored social issues with the transgender population in the following areas: interaction with senior services and the health care system and the expectations for social support in elder years. McCann talked about the difficulty in obtaining participants for the study but how important future studies were needed.

Researchers found three core areas: transition dynamics, fluid identity, and legal issues. Transition dynamics results revealed issues related to sexual orientation, interventions, coming out stages and gender age and the workplace. Fluid identity examined feminine vs. masculine expression and gender expression in society. Finally, legal issues revealed concerns related to voting rights, financial affairs and end of life issues. McCann invited attendees to ask questions during the presentation for clarification and greater understanding. Those who brought up discussion questions were rewarded with gifts! As the event came to an end, it was clear that everyone had enjoyed their time together and took with them some valuable information.