Aging with Pride: How Seniors At Home Supports Isolated LGBTQ+ Older Adults
  • LGBTQ+
  • Seniors

The United States is facing a significant demographic shift as its population gets older, including members of our LGBTQ+ communities.

According to the LGBTQ+ advocacy organization, Movement Advancement Project (MAP, it is estimated that, by 2030, there will be nearly 7 million LGBTQ+ people in the United States over the age of 50. This growing demographic highlights the urgent need to address the unique challenges faced by members of this community in their later years.

Closeup of two senior women holding hands.

While aging can create challenges for all older adults, LGBTQ+ people often encounter distinct obstacles as they get older. A 2022 study from AARP reveals a staggering 85% of respondents had concerns about discrimination in healthcare and social services. Two-thirds anticipate requiring a caregiver, yet 8 out of 10 worry they will lack adequate family or social support. 

These concerns are not unfounded, as a similar 2020 report by SAGE shows LGBTQ+ seniors are 3-4 times less likely to have children and twice as likely to live alone as compared to their heterosexual counterparts—a situation exacerbated by the fact that 80% of long-term care is typically provided by relatives.

The combination of all these factors leaves many LGBTQ+ older adults without the support systems that others often take for granted. An older woman happily peers over an open rainbow hand fan.

JFCS’ Seniors At Home recognizes these challenges and is committed to addressing them head-on. By providing inclusive and supportive care, Seniors At Home works to combat discrimination and ensure that LGBTQ+ individuals receive respectful, culturally competent services in their later years. Its dedicated caregivers help fill the gap for those without family support, offering both practical assistance and companionship. Through volunteer visitation programs and personalized care, Seniors At Home also tackles the isolation many LGBTQ+ older adults experience, fostering connections and improving quality of life.

As our older LGBTQ+ population grows, organizations like Seniors At Home play a crucial role in ensuring that everyone can age with the support, respect, and pride they deserve.
 

Seniors At Home is a division of Jewish Family and Children’s Services. Our staff, health care professionals, and highly trained caregivers are experts at providing basic home care services, as well as overall care management, Alzheimer’s, dementia, palliative care, skilled nursing, grief counseling, fiduciary management, LGBTQ services, advocacy, and more.

To learn more about Seniors At Home, visit www.seniorsathome.org or call 415-449-3700 to inquire about services.

 

Posted by Admin on June 24, 2024