Associate Director of the Aging Equality Project Human Rights Campaign Foundation
Participants should be aware of the following financial/non-financial relationships:
Dan Stewart, MSG: I do not have any relevant financial / non-financial relationships with any proprietary interests.
According to a recent study by AARP, 88% of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) older adults want residential long term care providers trained and prepared to meet their unique needs. Sadly, 60% percent of LGBTQ+ older adults fear verbal or physical harassment if they were to move into a long term care community. It is believed that most long term care communities want LGBTQ+ older adults to feel seen, welcomed, and cared for in their community. However, due to a lifetime of stigma and (at times legal) discrimination, poor experiences in healthcare, and lack of comprehensive discrimination protection, LGBTQ+ older adults avoid seeking care. Developing an LGBTQ+ inclusive community includes an informed person-centered care environment and informed policies and practices. This session introduces the Long Term Care Equality Index (LEI), the first national standard for inclusive LGBTQ+ policies and practices for senior housing and residential long term care communities. Speakers will provide guidance to leaders on how to take inventory of and develop LGBTQ-inclusive policies and practices. You will hear about the success stories of LEI-participating long term care communities implementing affirming policies and practices across the US. Case studies will illustrate the benefit of established LGBTQ inclusivity for residents and staff. From operations to everyday interactions with staff, clients, and caregivers, a dedication to an LGBTQ+ inclusive environment is a dedication to diversity and inclusion.
Learning Objectives:
Identify the need for LGBTQ-inclusive long-term care communities and services.
Explain foundational LGBTQ-inclusive policies and practices.
Describe how to gain access to the Long-Term Care Equality Index tool and resources for building LGBTQ-inclusivity in residential long-term care organizations.