One thing we have all learned from the COVID-19 pandemic is that social isolation and loneliness affects virtually every segment of society, and that strategies to combat this all too-pervasive issue differs from one community to another.
LGBTQ+ older adults are twice as likely to live alone and have a higher propensity for social isolation and loneliness than the general older adult population.
Thanks to a new grant from the UJA-Federation of New York, DOROT will offer programming specific to LGBTQ+ older adults beginning this summer. The grant provides for a range of thoughtful and substantive programming to help LGBTQ+ older adults connect to a welcoming intergenerational community that offers belonging, visibility, and opportunity for socialization and solo-aging support.
Programs funded through the grant include:
- Aging Solo: a workshop series to help LGBTQ older adults create an action plan for their next steps as they age.
- LGBTQ Film Club: a monthly program to bring together LGBTQ older adults to give voice and visibility to LGBTQ experiences through films and discussions.
- Telephone Connections: an initiative that will connect LGBTQ older adults to LGBTQ volunteers age 18+ for weekly telephone visits.
- A weekly Intergenerational Discussion Group for LGBTQ teens and older adults.
These activities will be designed to promote friendship, social connection, and shared mutual support; increase visibility; and help LGBTQ+ seniors age successfully and plan for the future.
In addition, DOROT staff, volunteers, and facilitators will receive training in Person-Centered Trauma Informed (PCTI) care and LGBTQ+ Cultural Competency to better serve current and new populations of LGBTQ+ older adults.
Stay tuned for more information on how to get involved in these programs.
Thank you to the UJA-Federation of New York for their generous support.
