SAGE

The vast majority of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) older adults have lived through discrimination, social stigma, and the effects of prejudice both past and present, including a history of being labeled as criminals, sinners, and mentally ill. For some, this fear and social stigma has disrupted their lives, their connections with their families of origin, their lifetime earnings and their opportunities to save for retirement. It has also made many of them apprehensive of health care professionals and aging service providers. Aging service providers should be aware that the effects of a lifetime of stigma, discrimination, rejection, ridicule, and victimization put LGBT older adults at greater risk for physical and mental illnesses and other issues.

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As the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) older adult population grows, many Aging Network providers are starting to consider their needs and incorporate their perspectives in the planning process. By making some simple changes, LGBT populations can be brought to the table as aging services and programs are designed, implemented, and evaluated. This guide aims to provide the local and state Aging Network (e.g., State Units on Aging (SUA), Area Agencies on Aging (AAA), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRC), direct service providers, advisory councils on aging, ombudsmen, etc.) with the tools and resources needed to be more inclusive of LGBT populations during the planning process.

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