Explore the different senior care options available to the LGBTQ+ community
Nine out of 10 adults aged 45 and older in the LGBTQ+ community have stated their fear of discrimination in care settings. [1]
At Flourish in Place, we follow a non-discrimination policy and view all people as equals, which is why it’s important to us to support the LGBTQ+ community in every way we can.
Continue reading to learn more about the different senior care options available for the LGBTQ+ community and Flourish in Place’s active support for the community.
What challenges do those in the LGBTQ+ community face as they age?
Those within the LGBTQ+ community face social and health disparities at all times, but especially as they age. Seniors within the LGBTQ+ community are more likely to be single or living alone, and four times less likely to have children. Studies have found that LGBTQ+ seniors often rely on close friends, meaning they are less likely to have the traditional support of family as they age. [2]
LGBTQ+ seniors are a growing population in need of improved health care and social support. The ongoing fear of discrimination has discouraged many aging adults in the LGBTQ+ community from seeking care options.
For all of these reasons and more, it is important to ensure that seniors in the LGBTQ+ community are aware of the LGBTQ+-friendly care and support available to them.
What resources are available for those in the LGBTG+ community seeking senior care options?
It is important that LGBTQ+ seniors are well-informed of the care and support sources available for themselves and others such as the ones listed below:
SAGECare
SAGE is a national advocacy and services organization for LGBTQ+ elders that offers a variety of services and support systems including providing training and consultation programs for LGBTQ+ elders including:
- Home health providers
- Skilled nursing facilities
- Health care organizations
- Hospice and palliative care
- And more.
American Association of Retired Persons (AARP)
AARP offers guidance on developing a caregiving plan for the LGBTQ+ community in their LGBTQ Community Caregiving Guide. This guide includes information on finding support, practicing self-care, navigating legal and financial issues, and more.
CenterLink
CenterLink is an international organization of LGBTQ+ centers and organizations serving local and regional communities. This organization has an easily accessible online locator to find the nearest LGBTQ+ community center for you or a loved one you are caring for.
GLMA
To better improve the healthcare network for the LGBTQ+ community, GLMA created a community of healthcare professionals working together to increase equality in care. The organization focuses on utilizing the expertise of its diverse membership to inform and drive advocacy, education, and research.
LGBT National Senior Help Center
The LGBT National Senior Help Center is a resource hub for adults 50 and older in the LGBTQ+ community. The help center provides information, online peer-support and a hotline (888-234-7243) to allow for better support within the LGBTQ+ community.
Our participation in the LGBTQ+ community
Flourish in Place is dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion. We are passionate about giving back to the generations that undoubtedly fought for the inclusivity of all people. Our founders, Kim and Melanie Lee, are leaders of “Forward Together, All Means All”. This is a group in First United Methodist Church of Orlando pushing for full equality and inclusivity for the LGBTQ+ community.
Kim and Melanie, pictured above, attend the Orlando Pride Walk annually to show their support for the LGBTQ+ community and express that love always wins.
Looking for an in-home caregiver for the LGBTQ+ community?
At Flourish in Place, we aim to be completely affirming, welcoming, and fully inclusive of all people. We provide home care options for all needs and specialize in helping families in Central Florida find the appropriate level of care for seniors and people with disabilities.
We offer a wide variety of specialized services including dementia care, cooking and serving nutritious meals, companionship and support, light housekeeping, and medication reminders.
To learn more, please request your Free Consultation today!
Sources:
2: The Williams Institute at UCLA School of Law | LGBT Aging
