What’s Different About Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Aging? Cathy Croghan, MS, MPH, RN Sarah Myott, MSW Barbara Satin, BA June 21,
What is LGB&T Sexual Orientation Lesbian/Gay: attracted to same sex Bisexual: attracted to either sex Gender Identity Transgender: umbrella term for non-conventional gender expression
What We’ll Cover 1. Introductions 2. Overview 3. Personal Story 4. Scenarios 5. Practical Things You Can Do
Overview Pre-Stonewall (1969) life experiences Baby Boomers ( ) Estimated 2.8 million nationwide
Isolation Live Alone (2X that of total population) No Life Partner (2X) No Children (4X) No Crisis Contact (10X)
Reluctance to Access Services LGBT elders are 5 times less likely to access social services than larger population Tend to wait for crises Feel need to return to closet Heterosexuality assumed Cisgender assumed
Assumptions Informs programming/service delivery Limits language for intake Limits discussion of relationships Limits life reminiscing Marginalizes/alienates LGB&T elders
Differences in Aging Face old age alone Lack traditional family supports in times of crisis Invisible to service providers/policy makers Discriminated against because they are gay or transgender Shunned because they are old
Scenarios What can you do?
Suggestions Inclusive infrastructure Welcoming environment Effective communication Open-ended questions Gender-neutral language Staff & Resident Sensitivity Training
Contact Information Training to Serve Cathy Croghan Sarah Myott Barbara Satin