Developing LGBT-Friendly Communities
The losses associated with moving into a long-term care setting are compounded for the LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender) population. Older LGBT persons have faced a lifetime of discrimination, many live alone without family support, and most have a distrust of the medical community. These individuals are fearful of the treatment that they may receive in an institutional environment. After struggling to come out and live openly, many LGBT people may choose to return to the closet to avoid discriminatory actions. These fears cannot be alleviated without developing specific policies and educating and training staff to address…
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