Supporting LGBTQ+ Seniors: Training for Inclusive Care

Challenges for LGBTQ+ Seniors

• ⚠️ Approximately 70% of LGBTQ+ older adults go back into the closet when entering skilled nursing facilities, losing their authentic selves.
• 🏠 LGBTQ+ older adults are often marginalized and vulnerable, with less family support and twice the likelihood of living alone compared to their peers.
• 🏳️‍🌈 Discrimination throughout their lives takes a toll on their well-being, leading to lower incomes and higher rates of chronic health conditions at younger ages.

SAGEcare Training Initiative

• 🎯 SAGE, a national advocacy leader, developed SAGEcare training programs to improve care for LGBTQ+ seniors.
• 🤝 The training aims to equip care providers to create inclusive and welcoming environments for LGBTQ+ older adults.
• 📈 Since 2016, over 1000 organizations have been credentialed, training more than 250,000 people nationwide.

Impact on Care Providers and Residents

• 💖 The training helps providers understand the unique barriers faced by LGBTQ+ older adults during the aging process.
• ✅ H.O.M.E. housing director Nikki Moustafa highlights how the training has improved her team's ability to support residents.
• ✨ The goal is to create environments where everyone feels safe and seen, honoring the rights paved by older generations.

Personal Reflections on Inclusive Housing

• 🏡 One resident shared their experience of finding a welcoming environment at H.O.M.E. after their previous building was sold.
• 💬 The speaker hopes their work makes individuals feel less alone and fosters a sense of belonging.
• 🌟 The initiative emphasizes that older adults should not have to continue fighting for their rights as they age, advocating for present-day programs and services.