Although largely invisible until very recently, LGBTQ older adults make up a significant (and growing) share of both the overall LGBTQ population and the larger 65+ population. 

While confronted with the same challenges that face all people as they age, LGBTQ elders also face an array of unique barriers and inequalities that can stand in the way of a healthy and rewarding later life. LGBT older adults, on average, are more likely to live in poverty and have deferred healthcare issues, and less likely to have an established support system. Many remain traumatized by the oppression they experienced over several decades. 

Agency on Aging Area 4 is committed to supporting LGBTQ+ older adults, creating inclusive communities for LGBTQ+ older adults, and enriching care for LGBTQ+ adults of color. 

For more information, we encourage you to visit The National Resource Center on LGBTQ+ Aging, the country's first and only technical assistance resource center focused on improving the quality of services and supports offered to lesbian, gay, bisexual and/or transgender older adults, their families, and caregivers. They provide training, technical assistance and educational resources to aging providers, LGBTQ+ organizations and LGBTQ+ older adults.

Another resource is SAGE, a national advocacy and services organization that’s been advocating for LGBTQ+ elders since 1978. SAGE provides advocacy, services, and support to older members of the LGBTQ+ community, especially those who are historically marginalized such as Black, Indigenous, or People of Color (BIPOC), transgender, non-binary, and rural LGBTQ+ elders.