LGBTQ older adults make up a growing share of both the overall LGBTQ population and the larger 65+ population. This training will explore special considerations and realities of being older and part of the LGBTQ+ community. Important statistics regarding the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ elders will be presented along with the concept of minority stress. Practitioners will be encouraged to explore their role in supporting these older adults through exploring a case study and key practice recommendations and strategies.
Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to:
- Identify key considerations of inclusion and experiences of LGBTQ+ older adults.
- Discover methods of supporting LGBTQ+ older adults.
- Impart three recommendations for addressing clinical considerations in working with LGBTQ+ older adults.
Syllabus:
Objective #1: Health, Aging, and Identity
- Increased risk for chronic illness, HIV, heart disease, and alcoholism
- Higher incidence of depression and anxiety linked to lifetime discrimination
- Importance of affirming care to promote healthy aging across body, mind, and spirit
Objective #2: Stigma, Isolation, and Risk
- Lifelong exposure to stigma and rejection increases vulnerability
- Risks include social isolation, poverty, delayed care, and early mortality
- Minority stress exacerbates health disparities among LGBTQ+ elders
Objective #3: Legal, Financial, and Social Barriers
- Limited access to pensions, inheritance, and spousal benefits
- Fear of discrimination in care settings leads to concealment
- LGBTQ+ elders may lack family support and face poverty at higher rates
Objective #4: Dementia and Health Equity Concerns
- 7.4% of LGBT adults live with dementia; many lack equitable access to support
- Barriers include discrimination, lack of affirming services, and social disconnection
- Racial and ethnic LGBTQ+ elders report heightened concerns about care quality
Objective #5: Mental Health and Coming Out Later in Life
- Later-in-life disclosure linked to reduced anxiety and increased connection
- Motivated by authenticity, loss, and shifting family dynamics
- Counseling must affirm identity and support meaning-making in later years
Objective #6: Discrimination in Mental Health Services
- Reports of transphobia, sexual harassment, and denial of affirming care
- Clinicians may refuse to provide letters for gender-affirming procedures
- Fear of involuntary hospitalization and mistrust of providers is common
Objective #7: Clinical and Programmatic Considerations
- Inclusive intake forms, respectful language, and visible affirming cues
- Transgender inclusion must be built into all policies and procedures
- Confidentiality, staff training, and programming tailored to LGBTQ+ elders are essential
Objective #8: Addressing Minority Stress
- Internalized stigma and cumulative discrimination impact behavioral health
- Stress heightened for LGBTQ+ elders of color due to intersecting identities
- Interventions must address identity concealment, grief, and healthcare avoidance
Objective #9: Affirming Care Models and Best Practices
- Incorporate Relational Cultural Theory to foster connection and reduce isolation
- Validate chosen families and non-traditional relationships
- Develop integrated behavioral health services and strong LGBTQ+ referral networks
Resources and Support Tools
- Use of LGBTQ+-affirming CBT and minority stress-informed interventions
- Access to tools: SAGE hotline, LGBTQ+ Healthy Aging Toolkit, community organizations
- Encourage peer support, inclusive group therapies, and culturally relevant materials
Social workers completing this course receive 3 Clinical asynchronous continuing education credits.
For other board approvals, this course qualifies for 3 Clinical continuing education training.
Instructor: Diane Bigler, LCSW, LSCSW
Recording Date: 8/24/2024
CEUS On-Demand, LLC, provider #2274, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 08/7/2026 - 08/6/2027. Social workers completing this course receive 3hrs Clinical continuing education credits.
CEUs On-Demand, LLC has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7091. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. CEUs On-Demand, LLC is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
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Request for Special Accommodations: Learners can request special accommodations by contacting the administrative team at admin@ceus-ondemand.com