Aging with Pride: Understanding the Unique Challenges Faced by LGBTQ+ Older Adults

June 3, 2025   |   Aging - general, Caregiving, Family and Friends

As more Americans age into their 60s, 70s, and beyond, we’re learning that the experience of growing older is not the same for everyone. Pride Month reminds us that for LGBTQ+ elders, aging can come with an extra layer of complexity—shaped by a lifetime of resilience, but also by decades of discrimination, social stigma, and unequal access to care.

According to a study by the nonprofit Movement Advancement Project, there are more than 2.4 million LGBTQ+ people over age 50 in the United States. This number is expected to more than double by 2030. The fact that more and more members of the queer community are reaching old age is great news—making it even more urgent that we understand the intersection of factors that affect their aging needs.

Today’s generation of LGBTQ+ older adults came of age in a time when being open about their identity could mean losing their job, being disowned by family, or even facing arrest or violence. Many have lived through the AIDS epidemic, the fight for marriage equality, and years without legal or social protection. These lived experiences shape how they interact with the health care system, caregiving support, and the broader aging services network.

Social isolation and loneliness

LGBTQ+ elders are more likely to live alone and less likely to have children than their heterosexual peers. Without a built-in support system of close family, many rely on chosen family—friends, partners, and neighbors who may not have legal authority to make decisions or provide care. These caregivers also face unique challenges. A study by the Regenstrief Institute and the medical schools of Indiana University and University of Colorado looked at the unique challenges of caregivers for LGBTQ+ people with Alzheimer’s disease (AD).

“Our study of the experiences of caregivers for LGBTQ+ older adults with AD found themes similar to the concerns of all caregivers, including the importance of social support, financial security and grief and bereavement support. But it also showed that LGBTQ+ status could affect the experience of health care in various ways, including raising concerns about discrimination and acceptance in care settings,” said study lead author Carey Candrian, Ph.D., of the University of Colorado School of Medicine.

“Issues that all caregivers experience might actually be more challenging for LGBTQ+ caregivers. For example, until recently, marriage was not a possibility, and some of the couples did not necessarily get married, which might affect insurance benefits and caregiver access.”

Health care disparities and distrust

Many LGBTQ+ seniors have delayed or avoided medical care due to past experiences of bias or mistreatment. Even today, not all health care providers are trained to understand the unique needs of LGBTQ+ patients. Some older adults still fear discrimination or judgment when they disclose their identity—fears that are often rooted in very real past experiences.

Mental health also plays a role. LGBTQ+ older adults are more likely to experience depression and anxiety, often linked to a lifetime of social rejection, marginalization, or trauma.

Fear of discrimination in senior living

Many LGBTQ+ older adults fear being judged by staff or fellow residents—or worse, being denied respectful, competent care. Inclusive senior housing options are growing, but they’re still not the norm. That’s why LGBTQ+-friendly aging services, cultural competency training for care providers, and advocacy from friends and allies matter so much.

If you’re supporting an LGBTQ+ older adult—whether as family, a friend, or a professional caregiver—small steps can make a big difference:

  • Ask about their preferences and identity without assumptions.
  • Help connect them to LGBTQ+-affirming services and health care providers.
  • Encourage social opportunities that reflect their community and values.
  • Advocate for inclusive policies in housing and care settings.

Above all, listen. Every person deserves to age with dignity, surrounded by people who see them, respect them, and support who they are.

Source: IlluminAge AgeWise