How to Capture Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity among Older Adults in Quantitative Surveys: Results from Cognitive Interview Analysis - Constructing a Demography of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (Part 1)

This methodological study by Daiki Hiramori and colleagues explores how to assess SOGI (Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity) among older adults through quantitative surveys. Many older adults are unfamiliar with terminology and concepts related to sexual minorities, making accurate assessment difficult with conventional survey methods. The authors conducted cognitive interviews with people aged 60 and above with diverse sexual orientations and gender identities, analyzing their understanding of questions and response processes. Results revealed that asking about specific genders of romantic interest is more effective than using technical terms like 'heterosexual' or 'homosexual', and that a gradual approach asking about congruence with assigned sex at birth is appropriate for gender identity.