Sexual orientation is the preferred term for describing people's enduring physical, romantic, emotional, and/or spiritual attraction to another person. Gender identity is the internal sense of gender one has that may or may not correspond to their sex assigned at birth. Sexual orientation refers to whom someone finds attractive, while gender identity refers to how someone sees themselves.
LGBTQ+ stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, intersex, and other related identities. LGBTQ+ is an umbrella acronym used to describe a diverse group of people who do not identify as heterosexual or cisgender (i.e., nontransgender). Older adults are typically defined as those aged 50 and above. Social isolation occurs when a person experiences a lack of social interaction or community participation. It can manifest as loneliness, exclusion, or disconnection from others.
Older adults experience many changes due to age, including retirement, loss of loved ones, health concerns, and mobility challenges. Isolation can occur in different areas of life, such as housing, work, family, friends, and community. For older LGBTQ+ adults, isolation may be compounded by societal stigma, prejudice, and discrimination. They may fear being rejected, targeted, or misunderstood if they come out publicly, limiting access to support systems. The media tends to portray them as promiscuous and immoral, perpetuating negative stereotypes.
Structural factors contribute to this isolation through institutionalized discrimination and homophobia. Housing options are often limited, with most senior centers segregated by sex or only offering roommate options. Family members may reject or ostracize older LGBTQ+ relatives for their sexual orientation or gender identity. Healthcare providers may fail to recognize the unique needs of this population, resulting in misdiagnosis and mistreatment. Ageism within LGBTQ+ communities creates barriers to inclusion and connection.
Older LGBTQ+ adults face higher rates of anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and suicide than their heterosexual peers. This population is also more likely to live alone without a spouse, partner, or close family member. In addition, they tend to have less financial stability due to systemic inequality. Social isolation increases the risk of mental and physical health problems. It contributes to feelings of hopelessness, social withdrawal, and decreased quality of life.
Efforts are underway to address these issues. Groups such as SAGE (Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders) provide support services and advocate for policy change. Community organizations offer safe spaces and networking opportunities. Online resources like SeniorPlanet.org provide information on healthy aging and well-being. Senior housing complexes are developing designated units for LGBTQ+ residents. Some states allow legal recognition of domestic partnerships and same-sex marriage.
While social isolation affects all older adults, it manifests uniquely among LGBTQ+ individuals. Structural factors contribute to this disparity through discrimination and lack of inclusivity. These challenges can be addressed through policy reform, community support, and increased awareness. By recognizing the unique needs and experiences of this population, we can promote better outcomes for all older adults.
How does social isolation manifest uniquely among older LGBTQ+ adults, and what structural factors contribute to it?
Social isolation is an increasingly pervasive problem among older individuals. This phenomenon has been widely studied in heterosexual populations, but few studies have examined how social isolation manifests uniquely among older lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ+) people. Research suggests that structural and historical oppression of LGBTQ+ communities has contributed to higher rates of social isolation among this population.