The Psychological Effects Of Discrimination In Older Adults

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Evidence of Problem
The effects of discrimination last a lifetime because discrimination is a concept that can affect individuals on a personal level and on an institutionalized one (Emlet, 2016; Daley 2017). Many LGBT older adults dealt with understanding their sexual orientation and gender identity during a time is was socially unacceptable, which means that many LGBT older adults today still suffer from the psychological effects of discrimination. However, it is important to recognize discrimination within different generations is diverse. For example, In Caring with Aging and Pride states that age groups of the Silent and Greatest Generations are less likely to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity because keeping quiet was …show more content…

A recent study states 13 percent of lesbian, gay, or bisexual older adults had been denied or provided inferior care. Individuals working within several assisted living facilities have also been reported to display prejudice, and discriminatory practices. Reports of staff within assisted living facility demonstrating discrimination provides insight to the lack of adequate care LGBT older adults receive.
In addition to the many psychological difficulties elderly LGBT individuals experience, there are many economic and health disparities within LGBT subgroups. LGBT populations were older than 80 and living with HIV were more likely to have economic insecurity because of the impact of health care costs. What this means is that there are greater economic disparities among older LGBT and their heterosexual peers (Emlet, 2016). Also, older adults in general are more vulnerable to poverty and 26 percent of adults ages 65 and older live below 200 percent the poverty level (Emlet, 2016).
Prior Policy …show more content…

Unfortunately, there are resources lacking for LGBT older adults around south Jersey. SAGE for example is a program where older LGBT older adults can gather and socialize, there are several events and support groups within their facility. SAGE unfortunately does not have a program located in South Jersey which is why Qspots Buddy Program is necessary. QSpot is an LGBT community center located in Ocean Grove New Jersey. QSpot directs several arts programming which aims to increase mental health and socialization of LGBT individuals. In addition to Qspots arts programming, they are also direct of several support groups because of the prevalence of substance abuse and mental illnesses. Despite Qspots several attempts at assisting the LGBT community, many of their programs do not currently accommodate LGBT older adults who are homebound, hospitalized, or socially isolated. The Buddy Program was created with the intention of providing companions who volunteer at the QSpot to assist and accompany older adults. The role of a buddy is to be there for their clients or LGBT older adults, to provide company to an LGBT older adult who was feeling socially isolated. Buddies also have several other responsibilities such as re-directing their clients to helpful resources. With the help of a buddy their client would have otherwise been hesitant of finding because

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