LGBTQ+ seniors face isolation, affordable housing challenges

As the population of LGBTQ+ older adults continues to grow, many of them face significant challenges related to social isolation, finding affordable and inclusive housing options.

Also, a lack of LGBTQ+-specific programs and culturally competent support services exacerbates these issues.

Mary Thompson, a 72-year-old lesbian, recently moved into an LGBTQ+-welcoming senior housing community in San Francisco. She had been living alone and struggling with loneliness after her partner of 30 years passed away.

“It was so isolating being by myself after Ruth died,” Thompson said in a study from the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. “I didn’t feel comfortable being open about my identity at the few social activities in my neighborhood. Moving here has been life-changing – I finally feel like I can just be myself.” […]