Historical and Generational Forces and Gender Differences in the Iridescent Life Course of Transgender Older Adults

Abstract Shifting historical, political, and social times have impacted transgender older adults in experiences and development. Examining how gender identities interact with life events within a historical context elucidates differences by generations and gender. Using a transgender subsample (n=205) from the National Health, Aging, and Sexuality/Gender Study (N=2,450), (logistic) weighted regressions with sociodemographic adjustment were performed to examine generational differences and gender interaction in key life experiences in identity, work, kin, bias, community, and health/well-being. Silenced (born 1935-1949, 18%), than Pride (1950-1964, 79%), Generation disclosed identity later, is less visible, more likely retired and veteran, more likely for lifetime opposite-sex marriage and divorce. Significant gender interactions exist in community engagement, kin relationships, and physical health. Despite small sample size, Invisible Generation (1914-1934, 3%) has unique differences. Findings show complexity of generational differences among transgender older adults, understanding of what helps better serve them as they age with their accumulated life experiences.