LGBT Older Adults 3
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LGBT Older Adults 3
LGBT older adults are subject to much discrimination in nursing facilities, assisted living centers, senior programs, etc. What is the solution?
The solution is to train staff in nursing facilities on policies that discourage discrimination and offer health care facilities to all people equally. This will help LGBT older adults to come out openly without hiding their sexual orientation because they will be covered from any possible harassment from caregivers or other elderly residents who may have different views concerning marriage and sexuality. This will help them to be proud of their situation as they live together with other people in the society where they will share residences even with those who are biased against them (Fruhauf & Orel, 2015).
There should be advocacy groups to push for improved conditions for LGBT older adults. The nursing homes should have a more supportive environment and the facilities should be of high quality and comfortable for them. The caregivers should not have a problem asking them questions such as whether they have a partner and let them understand that it is their option of getting married or not. The community where they are living should offer lectures, movies and other programs that are friendly to LGBT older adults so that they can have a sense of belonging.
The assisted living centers should have housing that is more affordable where they can get proper healthcare as well as social services. Those with mental and physical conditions should be accommodated to get proper medical care. Some need help in bathing, dressing and taking medications according to the prescriptions from the doctor. All these services should be offered without favor or discrimination by members of staff who are skilled according to the level of care that is needed. Those who need 24-hour care should have nurses who work in shifts to ensure that they are assisted all the time without leaving them alone (Fruhauf & Orel, 2015).