Finding More Welcoming Care for LGBTQ Seniors
Many LGBTQ seniors rely on their families of choice rather than biological ones for their care, and LGBTQ caregivers may not be treated with the same respect or understanding. LGBTQ caregivers can be especially vulnerable to caregiver burden, stress, and maybe less likely to seek out supportive services because of fears of being treated poorly. The LGBTQ community has a deeply-rooted history of caring for its own, without accepting help from “outsiders,” and you or your loved one may be accustomed to that culture. A distrust of social service providers may be based on very real experiences of discrimination or harassment earlier in life. However, it’s important to recognize your limitations and recognize that it’s okay to reach out for extra support. Also, anti-LGBTQ attitudes may exist within a loved one’s biological family. A carefully drafted set of legal documents can be crucial and outside consulting by gay-affirmative professionals in general can be helpful for resolving family disagreements in favor of a loved one’s preferences.
We offer a holistic client centered approach to caring for LGBTQ seniors or others facing ongoing health challenges. We will work as a team with trusted loved ones to ensure that their wishes are carried out according to their desires and needs and/or provide them with a vetted list of additional local resources if needed. We want to be a resource to you by identifying beneficial community resources, providing referrals to geriatric professionals if needed, and ultimately reducing the overwhelming responsibilities and stress of providing care. Please call us for a free consultation to see if we are a right fit for each other.
“When surveyed, 9 out of 10 LGBTQ people feared discrimination in care settings if providers knew their sexual orientation or gender identity.”
— SAGECare