Throughout the project, the lab engaged with a wide range of 2SLGBTQIA+ seniors to gather diverse insights that underscore the variability of their experiences and the socio-economic factors that influence their lives. This exploration highlighted the need for flexible housing solutions that account for intersecting identities. As a result, the collaborative efforts led to the development of the 'Safe Village' prototype—a community-centric model that fosters a supportive and secure environment for all seniors, regardless of their sexual or gender orientation. This model has been refined with input from community-based organizations, creating a scalable and replicable approach to senior housing. The culmination of this work is presented in the 2SLGBTQIA+ Seniors Housing Toolkit, an open-source resource for housing developers and providers, offering guidelines on building designs and modifications necessary to make senior housing spaces welcoming and affirming for 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals.
In the spirit of reconciliation, we acknowledge that we are on the traditional territories of the people of the Treaty 7 region, which includes the Blackfoot Confederacy (comprised of the Siksika, Piikani, and Kainai First Nations), the Tsuut’ina First Nation, and the Stoney Nakoda (including the Chiniki, Bearspaw, and Goodstoney First Nations). Calgary is also home to the Métis Nation of Alberta (Districts 5 and 6).
