WOMEN ’S BRAIN HEALTH SERIES: Overcoming Barriers to Care for LGBT Elders with Alzheimer’s

Conclusion Dementia and aging services that are LGBT-affirming can have a major positive impact on the under-served LGBT older adult population. At the same time, LGBT organizations that acquire greater awareness of aging and dementia issues can be critical for bringing their communities to key services. An early diagnosis gives people extra time to respond and pre- pare for successful care. The ten warning signs of Alzheimer’s Disease (see sidebar on page 39) can reveal when it is time to ask for a medical opinion. With or without a diagnosis, advance planning can help people stay in their homes, receive the best care, and maintain quality of life for longer. Planning also can provide another valuable benefit—greater control over one’s own life—and that can make a huge difference in a person’s well-being. References Adelman, M., Nolan, T., and Haskell, B. 2013. “LGBT Seniors and Dementia Care—Case Statement.” Document submitted to the San Francisco LGBT Aging Policy Task Force, Full Task Force meeting, November 12. San Francisco, CA. Alzheimer’s Association. 2015. Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures. www.alz.org/facts/ downloads/facts_figures_2015.pdf. Retrieved January 2, 2016. Espinoza, R. 2014. Out and Visible, the Experiences and Attitudes of LGBT Older Adults, Ages 45–75. New York: SAGE. www.sageusa. org/files/LGBT_OAMarketResearch_Rpt.pdf. Retrieved January 3, 2016. Fredriksen-Goldsen, K. I., et al. 2013. “Health Disparities Among Lesbian, Gay...
Source: Disruptive Women in Health Care - Category: Consumer Health News Authors: Tags: Alzheimer’s Disease LGBT Women's Health Source Type: blogs