For the past 10 years we have heard that the QPOC and the Trans segments of our community are the “most marginalized and vulnerable” That may have been true then but in the past decade the narrative changed to the point where LGB issues like the Equality Act have virtually been ignored to support these communities,

But in reality the most marginalized, vulnerable and ignored in our community is LGBTQ seniors. Very little attention has been paid to the problems and dangers facing LGBTQ seniors today. These individuals face a unique set of challenges related to their sexual orientation and gender identity, which often go unnoticed or ignored.

One of the major problems faced by LGBTQ seniors today is social isolation. Many of these individuals have lived through times when their sexual orientation or gender identity was considered taboo or even illegal. They may have been forced to hide their true selves or face discrimination and violence. This isolation can lead to feelings of loneliness, depression, and anxiety, which can have serious implications for their mental health.

Another problem facing LGBTQ seniors is discrimination and lack of access to adequate healthcare. Many seniors in this community may have faced discrimination throughout their lives, and this can extend to their experiences with healthcare providers. They may face barriers to accessing care, including lack of insurance coverage or discrimination from providers who are not knowledgeable about LGBTQ health issues. This can lead to a lack of appropriate treatment or preventative care, which can have serious consequences for their health.

Additionally, LGBTQ seniors face unique challenges related to aging, including financial insecurity and access to affordable housing. Many of these individuals may have faced discrimination in employment or housing throughout their lives, and this can leave them with limited financial resources in retirement. This can make it difficult to access the care and support they need as they age. Additionally, these individuals may be less likely to report abuse or neglect due to fear of discrimination or stigma.

Given these challenges, it is essential to develop strategies to address the needs of LGBTQ seniors. One potential approach is to increase education and awareness about the issues facing this community. This can include training for healthcare providers and caregivers to ensure that they have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide appropriate care. Additionally, community organizations can provide resources and support to LGBTQ seniors to help them connect with others and access necessary services.

Another strategy is to advocate for policies that address the specific needs of LGBTQ seniors. This can include expanding access to affordable housing and healthcare, as well as protecting the rights of LGBTQ seniors in long-term care facilities. Additionally, policies can be developed to ensure that LGBTQ seniors are not discriminated against in employment or housing, which can help address financial insecurity in retirement.

LGBTQ seniors face unique challenges related to aging, including financial insecurity and access to affordable housing. Many of these individuals may have faced discrimination in employment or housing throughout their lives, and this can leave them with limited financial resources in retirement. This can make it difficult to access the care and support they need as they age. Additionally, LGBTQ seniors may face discrimination in housing or long-term care facilities, which can limit their options for affordable, safe housing. And sadly also LGBTQ seniors face discrimination and invisibility within the community itself.

Finally, LGBTQ seniors may face increased risk of abuse and neglect. Studies have shown that LGBTQ seniors are more likely to experience abuse or neglect from caregivers, including family members and healthcare providers. This may be due to a lack of cultural competency or understanding of the unique needs of LGBTQ seniors. Additionally, these individuals may be less likely to report abuse or neglect due to fear of discrimination or stigma.

Given these challenges, it is essential that the community develop strategies to address the needs of LGBTQ seniors. Many of which are responsible for fighting for the rights we have today..

LGBTQ seniors face a unique set of challenges related to their sexual orientation and gender identity. These include social isolation, discrimination in healthcare and housing, financial insecurity, and increased risk of abuse and neglect. To address these challenges, we must increase education and awareness about the needs of this community, advocate for policies that protect their rights and address their needs, and create safe and welcoming spaces where they can come together and build community. By doing so, we can ensure that LGBTQ seniors receive the help and support that they rightfully deserve.

For more information please visit the National Resource Center On LGBTQ+ Aging