Pride Month: Supporting LGBTQ+ Older Adults with Dignity and Legal Protection

June is LGBTQ+ Pride Month—a time to celebrate and honor the LGBTQ+ community’s rich history, and recognize the ongoing efforts toward equality and inclusion. What began as a movement for civil rights following the 1969 Stonewall uprising has grown into a global celebration of identity and progress. But for many LGBTQ+ older adults, Pride Month is also a reminder of the personal and systemic challenges they continue to face. Hurley Elder Care Law is committed to supporting LGBTQ+ older adults with dignity and legal protection.

Historical challenges

Many LGBTQ+ seniors have lived through decades of marginalization, navigating a world where being open about their identity was risky or even criminalized. While progress has been made, the long-term impact of this history is still deeply felt.

Older LGBTQ+ adults are more likely to live alone, are less likely to have children, and often lack the support networks that their heterosexual counterparts may rely upon. These factors increase their dependence on professional care providers, many of whom may not be trained to handle or sensitive to LGBTQ+ issues. Additionally, the fear of discrimination may lead LGBTQ+ seniors to delay or avoid seeking healthcare, housing, or long-term care services.

Social support concerns

The AARP Dignity 2024 survey found that four out of five older LGBTQ+ adults, or 78 percent, are concerned about having enough social support as they age. Sadly, some LGBTQ+ caregivers also feel obligated to care for someone who does not accept their identity (14%). These concerns highlight the importance of proactive legal and care planning.

The Importance of Inclusive Estate Planning

At Hurley Elder Care Law, we understand that estate planning is essential for everyone, but it is particularly crucial for LGBTQ+ individuals. Without proper legal documents, unmarried partners and chosen family members may be excluded from important decisions. Even legally married same-sex couples may face challenges from estranged or unsupportive family members regarding wills, caregiving, or financial authority.

That’s why we encourage every adult, especially those in the LGBTQ+ community, to have:

• A Georgia Advance Directive for Healthcare
• A Durable Financial Power of Attorney
• A Will or Trust tailored to their wishes

These documents help ensure that trusted individuals, not default next of kin, can make financial, legal, and healthcare decisions when needed.

What If You Don’t Have a Decision-Maker?

Some individuals may feel unsure about who can or will speak for them when they can no longer. Others may lack a partner, family member, or friend who is willing or able to take on that role. In these cases, our Aging Ally service can provide essential support, acting as a dependable and compassionate advocate during times of crisis or transition.