Activity 2:

Bancale, Kurt Janiel

Bacasmo, Nisrine

Why is gender identity really a big deal for some elderly here in the Philippines? Does it affect
their lives?

In the Philippines, equality is a concept where everyone has equal rights and opportunities,
regardless of gender orientation. Discrimination has led to division and societal stigma, but
today, women and men have equal rights. As people become more conscious of their rights,
society advances and leaves a legacy of equality. Philippines study reveals 20% of elderly
transgender individuals face discrimination based on gender identity, while 40% face challenges
accessing specific healthcare, emphasizing the need for understanding and support.
We have to recognize all of the variables that impact this situation as we study how important
gender identity plays in the lives of particular old people in the Philippines. The Philippines'
traditional gender norms shape the culture, making it challenging for elderly individuals to
accept transgender identities, leading to resistance and judgment from families and
communities. Multiple gender identities are now more understood and widely accepted, but
previous generations may not have had as much exposure to these ideas. The difficulties
experienced by senior people who are outside of developed gender standards are made worse
by a lack of awareness, which can result in misunderstandings, fear, and discrimination.
Regardless of their gender identification, elderly people may have trouble getting the right
assistance and treatment. The obstacles may be considerably more severe for older
transgender and gender non-conforming people. Their ability to get sensitive and suitable
treatment may be hampered by the knowledge or training gaps among many healthcare
professionals in addressing the particular requirements of these people. Due to their gender
identification, elderly transgender people may face loneliness in society. Feelings of separation
and loneliness can be brought on by rejection from friends and family members as well as the
shame associated with gender difference. These emotional reactions can negatively impact
their general well-being and mental health.
To sum up, our older folks, who have survived the storms of life, need our highest respect and
care. As Mahatma Gandhi once remarked, The true measure of any society can be found in how
it treats its most vulnerable members. It is essential to comprehend the importance of gender
identity in people's lives, as well as the difficulties that they encounter, in order to create a
society that is more empathetic and inclusive. The challenge of today is fixing the
understanding, acceptability, and generational gaps. Regardless of age, it is our shared
obligation to promote a culture where gender diversity is honored and appreciated. We can
build a future in which our senior citizens may live genuinely and with dignity by arguing for
inclusive laws, advancing education, and developing open discussions about gender identity.