Older lesbians are invisible both within and outside of the lesbian community. Using a postmodern and lesbian feminist approach, in this article we identify a paradox in our society which defines lesbians in terms of their sexuality while older women are generally viewed as asexual. We suggest that this paradox contributes to the invisibility of older lesbians. Our focus is on the interactive nature of the relationship between personal and public constructions of lesbianism in the lives of older women. Finally, we discuss the potential impact of invisibility on self-identity, and using a feminist gerontological framework suggest implications for the empowerment of older lesbians.

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Most caregivers of adults with mental retardation are older women, yet information is sparse regarding the nature of this support. In this study we explore the relationship between offspring gender and caregiving by older mothers. Of the 235 caregivers interviewed, no demographic differences were found between mothers with daughters and sons. Despite these similarities, we found mothers less likely to use day services for their daughters. Mothers with daughters were more likely to feel burdened by caregiving and expressed a need to be constantly vigilant. However, mothers received the most help from daughters with household tasks. Gender differences have implications for outreach to, and services for, these families.

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