ElderPRIDE demonstrates commitment to our lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, and queer (LGBTIQ) residents, staff, families, volunteers, and visitors that we are a safe and welcoming organisation.

Resident and staff participation has been very positive and reflects a growing awareness of, and gratitude for, diversity in our community.

Morning and afternoon teas were held at most care homes, with many residents involved in the preparation of food, arts and crafts in rainbow colours.

At Acacia Court in Hendon residents went back in time by celebrating the anniversary of the first Pride march, which was held in New York City on June 28, 1970. Pride march costumes throughout the years was the basis for a discussion with residents about the importance of freedom of expression.

Similar discussions about the importance of people being able to be themselves, preceded the annual Mardi Gras parade held at Eldercare Seaford with the theme of ‘dress how you want to dress’. Residents marched and danced through the home in a costume of their choice. Those residents who chose not to be in the parade enjoyed watching their friends march through the home.

At The Lodge a florist was commissioned to install a colourful floral walkway for residents and their guests to enjoy for the month of June, whilst Adelaide Qwire also performed wonderful music for residents to tap their feet too.

Movies with LGBTIQ themes have been shown in lounge rooms in most Eldercare homes including Eldercare’s own production ‘You Can Ask That’, to debunk the myths and perceptions that still impact LGBTIQ people.

Eldercare is committed to promoting a deeper understanding of the ways in which past and present experiences of discrimination can impact on LGBTIQ people.

In 2019 Eldercare was the first Residential Aged Care organisation in South Australia to receive Rainbow Tick Accreditation (quality framework that helps health and human services organisations show that they are safe, inclusive, and affirming services and employers for the LGBTIQ community). Eldercare hopes that having the Rainbow Tick helps people to feel welcome and safe and gives them confidence that they can be themselves.