As people grow older, their needs evolve — but the need for connection, support, and a sense of belonging remains essential. For many Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Intersex (LGBTI) seniors, ageing presents unique challenges, including isolation, lack of tailored services, and societal marginalisation. Thorne Harbour Health’s Rainbow Connection addresses these challenges by offering a lifeline of support, care, and connection for older members of the LGBTI+ community.
About Thorne Harbour Health
Thorne Harbour Health is an LGBTI+ community-controlled health organisation with over four decades of experience. Originally founded in response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic, it has since expanded to provide comprehensive services to the LGBTI+ community and people living with HIV. The organisation’s commitment to health and advocacy remains strong, with programs designed to support community wellbeing, including the Rainbow Connection initiative.
What is Rainbow Connection?
Rainbow Connection is Thorne Harbour Health’s dedicated program that connects and supports LGBTI+ seniors in Adelaide with passionate volunteers. Many LGBTI+ elders lack the same family support or community networks as their peers. This program was developed to foster meaningful friendships, reconnect individuals with the community, and promote mental health and wellbeing. At its heart, Rainbow Connection is about creating social networks and ensuring LGBTI+ seniors age with dignity and a sense of belonging.
As part of the Aged Care Volunteer Visitor Scheme (ACVVS), the program is available to seniors living in aged care or receiving home care. This program is delivered at no cost to participants, thanks to support from the Australian Government’s Department of Health and Aged Care.
What Can Rainbow Connection Offer?
- Social Outings and Events
Rainbow Connection organises inclusive and accessible social gatherings tailored to the needs of the individual, from casual coffee meetups to walks and trips to the cinema. These opportunities help pairings form new friendships, share experiences, and stay connected with community.
- Volunteer Training and Development
Almost all our volunteers identify as LGBTI+ and those who don’t are staunch allies with close community connections. In addition to this lived experience, volunteers also receive training on cultural awareness and aged care, so they understand the unique needs of older LGBTI+ people.
- Community Partnerships
Through collaborations with aged care providers, community groups, and health services, Rainbow Connection ensures LGBTI+ seniors have access to a network of support.
How Can I Sign Up?
LGBTI+ seniors often experience higher rates of isolation compared to their heterosexual and cisgender peers. As they age, some may struggle to find connection or may even be forced back into the closet. Rainbow Connection combats this isolation, offering a safe, affirming space where LGBTI+ elders are valued, and supported.
Rainbow Connection has recently recruited new volunteers, all waiting to be matched with an LGBTI+ senior.
For more information or to get involved, visit the Thorne Harbour Health website, email sa.rainbowconnection@thorneharbour.org, or call Thorne Harbour Health’s friendly Rainbow Connection coordinator on 0417 753 230.