“Siempre hay algo” : experiences of health and aging among older transgender women in the Dominican Republic

Background While the health outcomes of transgender (trans) women are well-documented, few studies have examined older trans women. The current study explored health experiences among older trans women in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.Method We conducted interviews with trans women aged 45 years and older (n = 19) and analyzed data using narrative and thematic techniques.Results Participants discussed worry about health conditions related to aging with the phrase “siempre hay algo” (“there is always something”). This phrase also captured the legacy of healthcare discrimination, which, combined with chronic disease, made participants apprehensive about their health as they aged. In response, participants described a commitment to health-promoting behaviors, including exercising more and drinking less.Conclusions Study findings support the need for strengths-based health promotion models and sensitization of medical providers to support older trans women. Future research is needed to determine the burden of disease related to aging to inform tailored health promotion efforts and policies.