An exploratory look at perceptions of southern LGBT older adults on three long-term care services

Abstract

As LGBT older adults continue to age, many will need some form of Long-Term Care (LTC). LTC allows the individual to live as independently and safely as possible. Because of the lack of social support systems for LGBT older adults, while aging, some LGBT individuals and organizations are concerned about future LTC. The study utilized a cross-sectional approach. Participants were 728 self-identified LGBT older adults who completed a survey on their perceptions of LTC services. The results of this study reveal that older LGBT adults view future LTC in three different ways: (1) Fear surrounding LTC, such as providers, staff, and other residents, (2) specific facilities of LTC including nursing homes and assisted living facilities, and (3) facilities of LTC that are non-clinical and deal with community or home care. To improve LTC services, the researchers recommend creating more LGBT-specific LTC options, hiring more LGBT providers, and implementing diversity training for providers and staff members. The study aims to update existing research on older LGBT adults and LTC. More quantitative and qualitative research is needed in all aspects of LGBT older adults, especially in LTC settings.