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Journal of the American Geriatrics Society: Dr. Bronwyn Keefe and Experts in Aging Commit to Improving Healthcare for LGBTQ+ Older Adults
While equitable health and civil rights for older adults who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other identities (LGBTQ+) has improved over the past decade—with an increase in visibility and awareness, the legalization of same-sex marriage, and other legal protections—LGBTQ+ older adults still face persistent discrimination and gaps in care. Dr. Bronwyn Keefe, director of the Center for Aging and Disability Education and Research (CADER) at BU School of Social Work (BUSSW) recently joined forces with other experts in aging from the American Geriatrics Society (AGS) to reaffirm their commitment to improving care for LGBTQ+ older adults.
The statement offers three recommendations for education, policy, and research:
- Education: All professionals working in healthcare organizations that serve older adults must receive education about caring for LGBTQ+ older adults. CADER offers one such educational initiative to Massachusetts professionals in aging – the free online course, “Prevention and Elimination of Discrimination Based on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity and Expression.”
- Policy: Legal, policy, and institutional changes should be sought for LGBTQ+ older adults that include data privacy protections, family medical leave for caretakers, and non-discrimination policies.
- Research: Future research should investigate the healthcare needs of LGBTQ+ older adults and develop appropriate interventions based on that research.
As the LGBTQ+ community continues to face discrimination and health disparities, AGS remains committed to building a society where all people have access to high-quality care. The authors of the statement now call on healthcare professionals and policymakers to implement these recommendations to transform care for LGBTQ+ older adults.