Your Guide to Assisted Living Communities for LGBTQ+ Older Adults

Assisted living communities provide a safe and supportive living environment for older adults who require assistance with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, and medication management. These communities offer essential services like meal preparation and housekeeping and foster a sense of community among residents.

While these valuable services are beneficial to all residents, LGBTQ+ older adults may have additional concerns and considerations when choosing an assisted living community. For instance, they may seek inclusive and affirming environments where they can express their identity freely and without fear of discrimination.

LGBTQ+ individuals might also prioritize communities that have staff trained in cultural competency and opportunities for social engagement with peers who share similar experiences. Ensuring these needs are met is crucial for fostering a sense of belonging and comfort in their new home.

Understanding the Needs of LGBTQ+ Older Adults

As members of the LGBTQ+ community age, they may face specific challenges that are not experienced by their heterosexual counterparts. These challenges can be related to physical health, mental health, or social support.

One major concern for LGBTQ+ older adults is the lack of family and social support. Due to discrimination, many may have been estranged from their biological families, and as a result, they rely heavily on their chosen family and community for support. In an assisted living community, finding a welcoming environment that can provide this necessary support system is essential.

LGBTQ+ older adults might also face unique health concerns such as higher rates of chronic health conditions, increased risk of depression and anxiety, and reluctance to seek medical care due to previous experiences of discrimination. Therefore, assisted living communities must have staff trained in addressing these needs with cultural competency.

The Benefits of Inclusive & Affirming Environments

Here are some potential benefits of creating an inclusive and affirming environment for LGBTQ+ older adults in assisted living:

Improved mental health: Feeling accepted and supported can positively impact the mental health of LGBTQ+ individuals, reducing feelings of isolation, depression, and anxiety.
Better physical health outcomes: With an inclusive staff trained in cultural competency, LGBTQ+ individuals may be more likely to seek medical care and receive appropriate treatment for their specific needs.
Increased overall satisfaction: When LGBTQ+ individuals feel safe and comfortable in their living environment, they are likely to be more satisfied with their overall quality of life.
Stronger sense of community: By creating an inclusive and welcoming environment, assisted living communities can foster a strong sense of community among LGBTQ+ residents, promoting social connections and support.
Promotes diversity and acceptance: An inclusive and affirming assisted living community not only benefits LGBTQ+ individuals but also promotes diversity and acceptance within society as a whole. It sets an example for others to follow and creates a more inclusive and understanding society.

Choosing an Assisted Living Community

When considering an assisted living community for LGBTQ+ older adults, there are specific factors to keep in mind. In addition to the standard amenities and services offered, it is essential to inquire about the community’s policies and practices regarding inclusivity and diversity.

Some questions that can help evaluate a potential assisted living community include:

Does the community have non-discriminatory policies in place?
Are staff members trained in cultural competency and LGBTQ+ issues?
Is there a welcoming and inclusive environment for all residents, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity?
Are there social activities and events specifically geared toward LGBTQ+ individuals?

It is also beneficial to research the community’s reputation within the LGBTQ+ community and gather feedback from current residents. This can give insight into the community’s overall attitude towards LGBTQ+ individuals and their experiences living there.

It is important to note that not all assisted living communities may have experience or knowledge in accommodating the needs of LGBTQ+ older adults. In such cases, it may be helpful to educate staff members on these specific needs and work together to create a more inclusive and supportive environment.

How to Advocate for LGBTQ+ Inclusivity

As a loved one or caregiver of an LGBTQ+ older adult, there are steps you can take to ensure their safety and inclusivity in an assisted living community. Here are some ways to advocate for your loved one:

Educate yourself on the specific needs and challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in assisted living communities.
Communicate openly with the staff members of the chosen community about your loved one’s needs and any concerns you may have.
Encourage the community to implement non-discriminatory policies and provide cultural competency training for staff members.
Connect with local resources and organizations that support LGBTQ+ older adults and seek guidance if needed.

Our Commitment to Inclusive Living at Juniper

As people continue to live longer, assisted living communities need to adapt and cater to diverse groups of older adults, including the LGBTQ+ community. By providing an inclusive environment and addressing unique health concerns, these communities can help LGBTQ+ older adults feel welcomed, supported, and respected.

At Juniper Village at Hamilton, we are committed to promoting diversity and providing inclusive care for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. We believe everyone deserves to live with dignity and access quality care, and we continuously strive to create a safe and welcoming environment for all our residents.

Cindy Longfellow