Responses to Civil Partnership:A framework for the legal recognition ...

Elderly same-sex couples3.13 It was stated that in 10 years time there will be more lesbian and gay peopleaged over 60 than lesbian and gay people aged under 26, and that this raisedissues regarding the appropriate treatment of civil partners in nursing homesand those civil partners who might need domiciliary care. Some peopleexpressed concern that proper consideration should be given to the needs ofthose elderly same-sex couples who register their partnerships and thesubsequent recognition and respect of their partnerships in the context ofproviding and receiving care.“Some of the responsibilities of registered partners have serious anddisadvantageous implications, particularly in older age.”The national minimum standards for care homes require that residentsare treated with respect and dignity and their right to privacy is upheld;that the lifestyle experienced in the home satisfies their social, cultural,religious and recreational interests and needs.The proposals for civil partners balance the responsibilities of caring forand maintaining a partner with a package of rights – for example, in thearea of inheritance.20