The social support networks of older lesbians : a creative response

This thesis investigates sources of social support for a group of older lesbians who live in Nova Scotia. Using a feminist methodology has allowed the womyn, for and about whom this research is actually undertaken, to be heard in their own voices, sharing experiences which named and defined the research issues. Issues named by these older lesbians are; lesbian community, partnerships, friendships and non-lesbian support. As the patterns took shape a broader analysis suggests older lesbians are forced by heterosexist society, which is largely unaware of their concerns, to create their own support networks. These womyn know what they require to meet their needs and they also know it is not provided by heterosexual hegemonic institutions. The networks these lesbians create are structured not only to meet their needs but also to offer resistance against a society that would otherwise not recognize them or their relationships.