July 1, 2019
As advocates for long-term care consumers, it is imperative that Ombudsman programs are aware of the individual problems facing older adults, this includes becoming more knowledgeable on the topic of lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT) elders to ensure all residents' rights are respected and they receive quality care.
Individuals living in nursing homes have the same rights to be free from discrimination and harassment as individuals living in the larger community. They have additional rights and protections provided by federal nursing home regulations and state and federal anti-discrimination provisions. The rights of all residents should be honored and respected, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity or expression.
The resources below will help Ombudsman programs develop better methods of advocating for LGBT consumers to ensure they receive care that is equal to all long-term care consumers.
Residents’ Rights and the LGBT Community: Know Your Rights as a Nursing Home Resident
This fact sheet presents data on LGBT elders living in nursing homes. It informs LGBT older adults of the many rights that they have and lists general long-term care resources as well as resources specific to LGBT aging. Read the fact sheet here.
Introduction to LGBT Aging: What You Need to Know about Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Older Adults
This presentation gives an introduction to the unique problems that LGBT older adults face in comparison to others. It also covers how long-term care Ombudsmen can best help these individuals and provides additional sources that Ombudsmen can reference.
Advocating for LGBT Long-Term Care Consumers: Resources for Long-Term Care Ombudsmen
Through this webinar, a series of presenters share data and examples that cover LGBT older adult long-term care consumers. The presenters share methods and resources for supporting LGBT elders. The information provided in these presentations is very useful for Ombudsmen who are looking to learn more in-depth ways of advocating on behalf of these consumers. View this webinar here.
For additional information on Ombudsmen supporting LGBT elders visit the NORC website.
Read archived issues of NORC Notes here. If you have a question, are not able to find a resource, or want to share training materials or program practices, please email ombudcenter@theconsumervoice.org.
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