MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. – As pride celebrations continue around the country, one often overlooked sector of the community is the elderly, and while aging comes with a wide range of concerns, both financial and physical, older LGBTQ+ individuals have specific challenges.
“There are over 3 million LGBTQ older adults in this country, and we’re estimating that that is probably going to grow to over 7 million by 2030,” said John-Paul Hayworth, Senior Director LGBTQ Audience Strategy with the AARP.
According to the American Association of Retired Persons’ Dignity" 2024 survey, the largest concern for older LGBTQ+ adults is social isolation, which could mean lacking the support they will need as they age.
“The LGBTQ community is more likely to be single, less likely to have children, and some of those social connections that we would assume from a family or biological connection aren’t there,” said Hayworth.
The survey also found a number of queer adults feel vulnerable in health care spaces, particularly trans and nonbinary people, with a third saying their quality of care has been compromised.
“Anytime you find a new doctor, you have to come out again,” said Hayworth. “And it’s a challenge sometimes to find good healthcare professionals who understand all the needs of the community.”
Ernesto Finales with the non-profit advocacy group SAGE says medical providers should take time to understand where these patients are coming from.
“I think part of that is really connecting with the community and making sure that their voices are elevated,” said Finales.
And for members of the community looking to take control of their future:
“It really is a matter of planning,” said Hayworth. “Not only in terms of caregiving and who is able to care for you as you, as you age, but also being making those financial decisions so that you’re prepared to make the decisions that you want.”
SAGE also says that many LGBTQ seniors experienced discrimination during their careers and earning years, diminishing the funds they have now for retirement and care.