Ed D

Poignant. Wonderful. Brave & Courageous. Tragic. Concerning. Personal For me this was a wonderful film. It was Poignant. I’m touched by this documentary. As an aging Bisexual Man it held special relevance for me. I am impressed by the Bravery and Courage of the participants who share their stories. At the same time, it is Tragic. Generally, Elder Abuse- physical, emotional, and financial is a significant issue in our society. Elder Abuse is more common for the LGBTQIA+ community. The oppression endured in the 50’s by the LGBTQIA+ community is resurfacing in their elder years. This is leading to paranoia and a return to the “Closet” for some. These fears unfortunately are founded in reality and often exacerbated by familial estrangement. There continues to be prejudice and discrimination even in these “liberated” times. Not revealing targeted status is a rational response in an attempt to avoid discrimination. It is tragic to separate ones self from loved ones, partners and significant others. It is tragic to Be Alone at End of Years. Living Alone is much more common for elders in the LGBTQIA+ community. Most tragic for me was the vignette of Krysallis Anne, a transgendered woman. She was rejected by her family and faced the tasks of daily living with serious health debilitation. I am brought to tears imagining her pain after her son abandoned her Again following their hopeful reunion! Facing the tasks of daily living with decline of physical, cognitive capacities, and declining health combined with increasing frailty is daunting. One of the most affecting elements for me is the Love shared each for the other. The affection and love that Lois and Sheri share for each other is evident after nearly four decades as partners. We only view Walter in photographs; but Dr Simms’ Love and Caring for Walter are obvious. Alexandre and Lawrence epitomize enduring Love. In spite of his cognitive decline, Alexandre’s Love for Lawrence radiates from the screen as does Lawrence’s for Alexandre. It is Inspiring to witness Lawrence’s Love and Devotion through his loving, gentle, and kind caregiving! Lawrence is Courageous sharing with us the intimate details of his and Alexandre’s lives, trials and tribulations. It’s reassuring and heartening to see a Happy Lawrence with enthusiasm for life and living after expressing and sharing the depths of his despair. The Gen Silent issues are in my future as an elder living alone. How soon will my increasing infirmities deny me the ability to carry out the tasks of daily living and steal my independence and my freedom? Currently I’m having difficulty with performing maintenance and repairs around the house that a few years ago were inconsequential. I wear my Apple Watch in the shower to summon the EMTs in case i fall. I’m considering leaving my door unlocked so said EMTs do not have to break down my door should i fall. One Terrifying future prospect is losing autonomy exemplified by losing my ability to drive !! That Horrible day is in my future! How Soon?