Growing old isn’t for the faint of heart but some groups have greater health and social problems as they age resulting from inequalities throughout their lifetime; new research by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention sheds light on the health disparities facing older LGBT people today.
According to a recent report by MedicalXPress, as a result of stigma, violence and discrimination, lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered people may not have had access to good health care services throughout their lives. As a result, they may be wary of seeking medical treatment later in life or accessing other senior services.
According to the CDC report, about 2.7 million American adults over 50 identify as LGBT and 1.1 million are over the age of 65. By 2060, those numbers are expected to double. LGBT seniors in rural communities especially report a lack of access to LGBT senior services and if they lose the ability to drive, without public transportation may become socially isolated or be unable to get medical attention.
The large scale study, Aging with Pride: National Health, Aging and Sexuality/Gender Study is a collaboration of 11 communities agencies and 2,560 LGBT adults over the age of 50. The project helps researchers better understand the health and aging needs of the LGBT community. Nearly 45 per cent of LGBT older adults live alone and are increased risk for social isolation, disability, poor health and mental distress. About 1 in 3 seniors who participated in the study said they didn’t have someone they could turn to for help if they needed assistance.
With growing diversity among the senior population, understanding and meeting the needs of the LGBT older population is considered a major public health issue. Isolation, LGBT-friendly retirement communities and health problems like HIV, depression or addiction are just a few of the many difficulties facing aging LGBT adults. Learn more at Aging with Pride.
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