The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA
3139.0: Monday, November 11, 2002 - 1:24 PM

Abstract #37016

Health-related concerns of aging Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) persons and a model program designed to address these needs

Esther Katzman, MSW, Senior Health Resources, P.O. Box 53453, Temple Heights Station, Washington, DC 20009-9998, 202-388-7900, EKatzman@aol.com

As people age, there is a significant increase in the need to access health and social services in order to live as safely and independently as possible. Health care, prescription drug coverage, case management services, in-home support and other long-term care services are some of the issues that begin to concern those in middle age and beyond. For many LGBT elders, these challenges are complicated by homophobia on the part of health and social services professionals and fellow consumers.

An understanding of and sensitivity to the diversity and unique needs of LGBT seniors is essential to the provision of effective quality health and social services. “Mainstream” aging providers may not be aware of the issues and needs facing LGBT seniors. These agencies may not conduct staff training in sexual orientation or have an inclusion of LGBT persons built into their program. LGBT persons themselves are not always proactive in planning for the issues that arise as we age. Furthermore, some LGBT persons may be in need of resources, support and education for themselves, their partners, friends and/or parents.

Senior Health Resources (SHR) is a nonprofit organization providing health-related services to the LGBT aging community, their family and friends in the Washington DC area and address these significant issues. SHR seeks to enhance awareness on the parts of both the LGBT and general aging communities, to facilitate plans for cutting edge programming, and to create networking and collaborations within the existing health care delivery system.

Learning Objectives: Learning Objectives