Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning Seniors:

Are likely to be separated from biological family members. It's important to remember that someone who is a senior today has lived through many eras which were hostile to the LGBT community. Family members may not have understood when this person came out of the closet 20, 30, or 40 years ago.

Are less likely to have children. Though we see more and more same-sex parents today, in earlier times these families were much less a possibility. Many Sage Upstate members who take care of their own parents today wonder who will take care of them in the future.

Are more likely to live alone. Two-thirds of LGBT seniors are on their own, compared to one-third of seniors in the general population.

Are less likely to reach out to services that may help them. Some LGBT seniors are reluctant to reach out because they fear they will be treated unfairly by providers or ridiculed by other residents or clients of services. Others may access services but keep their sexual orientation and/or gender identity hidden.

Fact sheets, materials

• Organizations serving LGBTQ Seniors in New York
  SIWG Resource List
• Articles on LGBTQ Seniors
  Aging and Gay, The Love That Will Finally Speak Its Name
• Legal Issues related to LGBTQ Seniors:
  Legal Issues
• Creating a Supportive Environment for LGBTQ Seniors
  How to create a supportive environment
• Form for identifying an agent to carry out your wishes at death
  Remains Form
• Where do New York State Legislators stand on our issues?
  New York State Legislative Score Card
• Fact Sheet on Marriage Equality
  Marriage Q + A
• Fact Sheet on the Gender Expression Non-Discrimination Act
  GENDA Q + A
• Tips for meetings with legislators
  Legislative Meeting Tips