News Media Coverage of Key Takeaways from David Alfini's Presentation on Providing Inclusive Care for LGBTQ+ Seniors

Reporters at Senior Housing News and Windy City Times attended and wrote key takeaways articles on David Alfini’s recent presentation at a Hinshaw-sponsored webinar titled “Offering Culturally Appropriate Care and Services to LGBTQ+ Seniors.” In his discussion, Alfini emphasized the significant rise in the number of LGBTQ+ elders, describing this trend as not just a challenge but also a remarkable opportunity for the senior living sector:

“This is a new demographic, a new consumer, and a new possibility of residents. However, this demographic is new to senior living, and providers are not always confident in addressing their needs at this point in time.”

Understanding the diverse histories and experiences of LGBTQ+ seniors helps senior living professionals create inclusive environments. To do so, Alfini stressed the importance of recognizing the historical and cultural contexts that have shaped the lives of LGBTQ+ adults, from landmark events like the 1969 Stonewall riots to the legalization of same-sex marriage across the United States in 2015.

“This is someone who has faced institutionalized discrimination regarding healthcare, legal status, employment, housing, and most of their young and adult life. Everyone has had different experiences, but generally, there’s a sense of vulnerability and discrimination by authority figures and institutions—that is a historic experience for many in the LGBTQ community.”

Alfini was joined in the webinar by Chad Boeddeker, Executive Director of Westmont of Carmel Valley. The panel also reviewed how the rights of the LGBTQ+ elder are protected by a series of laws in California, including the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Long-Term Care Resident's Bill of Rights, the Elder Abuse statute, and negligence per se.

Media Coverage

• “Experts: LGBTQ+ seniors are often ‘vigilant’ when planning housing needs” was published by Windy City Times on July 7, 2024.
• “Why Senior Living Operators Must Do More to Win Over LGBTQ Older Adults” was published by Senior Housing News on June 27, 2024.