Systemic homophobia and transphobia in the health care system are two of many factors leading to increased isolation and shorter lives among LGBT seniors. A recent study conducted by the New York State Area Agencies on Aging found that 72% of gay and lesbians seniors are tentative to access services ?due to lack of trust and perceived lack of understanding? on the part of agency workers. Transgender elders may be even more hesitant to seek out medical and social services, according to a report conducted by the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force and the National Center for Transgender Equality. 19% of those surveyed reported being refused care due to their transgender or gender non-conforming status and 28% had been subjected to harassment in medical settings.
With traditional senior services failing to address the needs of aging LGBT people, the role of families and nontraditional support networks are particularly vital. These organizations provide resources, advocacy and community for LGBT seniors and their caretakers.
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