It is estimated that 2.4 million Americans over the age of 55 are gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender (GLBT). GLBT Americans are more likely to live alone without family or friends to care for them. Additionally, GLBT elders are less likely to be open about their sexual orientation than younger generations.

Creating a welcoming environment for GLBT elders in retirement communities allows them to be open and honest about their sexual orientation if they would like to be. Many organizations are opening facilities specifically for GLBT populations or implementing programs to foster inclusiveness.

“If gay and lesbian elders know a facility will be friendly and welcoming to them, they are more likely to self-identify rather than to return to the closet, say those who work with lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender elders. They are more likely to have friends visit and less likely to become isolated, lonely, or depressed,” writes Cathryn Domrose in a Nurse.com article.

What types of things has your community been doing to welcome GLBT elders?