LGBT Aging
This session will address how aging as an LGBTQ older adult is different than aging as a heterosexual, cisgender older adult, and how we can reflect and honor those differences.
2:20 PM - 3:20 PMMon
BELTSS Social Work/Counselor
Presenters
Kim Welter
CEO
KLW Consulting
This session will address how aging as an LGBTQ older adult is different than aging as a heterosexual, cisgender older adult, and how we can reflect and honor those differences through best practices in demographic data collection, inclusive forms, policies, marketing materials, programming, affirmation, feedback loops, and staff representation. Agencies will have an increased understanding of how the effects of a lifetime of stigma, discrimination, rejection and ridicule cause LGBTQ older adults to be at greater risk for physical and mental illness. LGBTQ older adults are less likely to access aging network services and providers because they fear discrimination or harassment. These special challenges must be addressed when designing or providing service to the aging.