One of the most pressing issues facing older Americans today is access to affordable senior housing. This issue is tenfold for LGBTQ+ elders, who must also find a space where they can live safely and authentically as themselves. According to Services and Advocacy for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Elders (SAGE), 41% of LGBTQ+ older adults fear having to hide their identity to access senior housing or care services.
While working with local support organizations, like Older Rainbow Community of Albuquerque (ORCA), that strive to provide continued education on the unique challenges LGBTQ+ elders face, I’ve noticed a clear misconception among service providers, who assume that if everyone who utilizes senior housing services is treated the same, there is no need for LGBTQ+-specific trainings or offerings. […]
Click here to read the full piece. This piece was originally published by Albuquerque Journal on June 20, 2025.