The Growing Demographic of LGBTQ+ Older Adults
Understanding the size and characteristics of the LGBTQ+ older adult population is the first step toward effective and inclusive care planning. While the lack of historical data makes precise figures challenging, various studies provide valuable insights into this growing demographic.
According to research from the Williams Institute at UCLA School of Law, approximately 2.3% of Americans aged 50 and older self-identify as LGBTQ+. Based on 2023 data, this translates to millions of individuals. Another study from the Center for Health Care Strategies, citing Movement Advancement Project (MAP) and SAGE, estimated around 2.7 million LGBTQ+ adults aged 50 and older in the United States, a figure projected to grow to over 5 million by 2060. The data also shows a distinction between age groups, with a higher percentage of individuals aged 50–64 identifying as LGBTQ+ compared to those aged 65 and older. As younger, more openly identified generations of LGBTQ+ people age, the number of LGBTQ+ elders will continue to rise.
The Unique Challenges Facing LGBTQ+ Elders
Beyond the raw numbers, it is vital to acknowledge the distinct challenges that shape the aging experience for LGBTQ+ individuals. A lifetime of social stigma, discrimination, and legal inequity has created significant disparities compared to their non-LGBTQ+ peers. These challenges often compound in later life, affecting overall health and well-being.
Some of the critical issues include:
- Social Isolation: Many LGBTQ+ elders are more likely to be single or live alone and less likely to have biological children, a traditional source of caregiving. This places them at higher risk for isolation and loneliness.
- Discrimination and Fear: A history of discrimination has left many wary of formal care systems. Studies have shown that many older LGBTQ+ adults fear discrimination from staff and other residents in long-term care facilities, leading some to conceal their identities to feel safe.
- Health Disparities: Due to minority stress and delayed care-seeking, LGBTQ+ older adults often experience higher rates of chronic illnesses, depression, anxiety, and disability.
- Financial Instability: Lifetime disparities in employment and discriminatory access to benefits, which existed before marriage equality, can result in greater financial insecurity in retirement.
Creating a Culturally Competent Care System
For senior care to be truly inclusive, providers must address these challenges proactively. Culturally competent care recognizes the unique histories and needs of LGBTQ+ individuals, creating a welcoming and affirming environment.
Here are actionable steps for providers:
- Staff Training: Implement mandatory training for all staff on LGBTQ+ cultural competency, including understanding terminology, addressing unconscious bias, and respecting diverse identities.
- Inclusive Intake Forms: Revise intake forms to include inclusive language for sexual orientation, gender identity, and relationship status. Use gender-neutral terms and allow space for individuals to self-identify.
- Visible Support: Display visual cues, such as rainbow flags or nondiscrimination policies, to signal a welcoming and safe space for LGBTQ+ individuals.
- Community Partnerships: Partner with local LGBTQ+ community centers and organizations to connect with the population and offer tailored programming.
- Affirming Housing: As demand grows, more LGBTQ+-affirming housing options are emerging, from dedicated communities to certified inclusive facilities.
Comparison: Resilience vs. Disparity in LGBTQ+ Aging
| Aspect | LGBTQ+ Older Adult Experience (Disparity) | LGBTQ+ Older Adult Experience (Resilience) |
|---|---|---|
| Family Structure | More likely to lack traditional family caregivers (children) due to lifetime discrimination. | Build strong “chosen families” of friends and partners, a key source of social support. |
| Healthcare Access | Avoid or delay seeking healthcare due to fear of discrimination and stigma from providers. | Use self-advocacy skills developed over a lifetime to seek out affirming care providers. |
| Mental Health | Higher rates of depression and anxiety stemming from minority stress and historical trauma. | Higher levels of resilience developed through coping with past adversity and the coming-out process. |
| Social Life | Face social isolation, especially in non-inclusive community settings like senior centers. | Seek out and create welcoming social networks, both online and in-person, through LGBTQ+ organizations. |
Conclusion: The Future of Affirming Senior Care
Understanding how many older adults identify as LGBTQ is just the starting point. The real work lies in recognizing their resilience, addressing the systemic challenges they face, and building a senior care infrastructure that is equitable and affirming for all. With projections showing significant growth, the need for culturally competent services will only become more pressing. By investing in training, resources, and inclusive environments, we can ensure that LGBTQ+ older adults can age with the dignity, respect, and quality of life they deserve. Organizations like SAGE, the country's largest and oldest organization dedicated to improving the lives of LGBTQ+ older people, are at the forefront of this work. For more information, visit SAGE's website.
