Posted on May 24th, 2024.

As a society, we have a responsibility to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their age or sexual orientation, have access to the support and resources they need to thrive. 

This is especially true for the LGBT elderly community, who often face unique challenges and barriers to accessing care. Fortunately, organizations like SAGE (Services & Advocacy for LGBTQ+ Elders) are working tirelessly to address these issues and improve the lives of LGBT older adults.

By understanding the unique challenges faced by LGBT seniors, such as discrimination and lack of support, and recognizing the efforts of organizations like SAGE to address these issues, we can all contribute to building a more inclusive and supportive world for our elders. It is important for everyone to be aware of the specific needs and struggles of LGBT seniors, and to actively support initiatives and policies that promote their well-being and inclusion in society.

What is SAGE?

SAGE is the world's largest and oldest organization dedicated to improving the lives of LGBTQ+ older people. Founded in 1978 and headquartered in New York City, SAGE offers supportive services, consumer resources, and advocates for LGBTQ+ elders and their caregivers.

How did SAGE start?

SAGE was founded in 1978 by a group of concerned activists who recognized the unique challenges faced by LGBT older adults. At the time, many LGBT elders were isolated, lacked access to supportive services, and faced discrimination in healthcare and housing settings.

The founders of SAGE were determined to change this, and they began by establishing a social support group for LGBT seniors in New York City. Over time, SAGE grew into a national organization, expanding its services and advocacy efforts to reach LGBT elders across the United States.

SAGE's Impact

SAGE has had a profound impact on the lives of LGBT older adults, both through its direct services and its advocacy efforts. Here are just a few of the organization's key achievements:

1. Maintaining the largest repository of expertise on LGBTQ+ aging issues.
2. Sponsoring capacity-building programs for LGBTQ+ aging advocates and service providers.
3. Running the National Resource Center on LGBTQ+ Aging, which provides training, technical assistance and educational resources to aging providers, LGBT organizations and LGBT older adults.
4. Coordinating a network of 21 local SAGE affiliates in 15 states and the District of Columbia to expand its reach and impact.
5. Advocating for policy reform, providing training on LGBTQ+ cultural competence for elder care providers, and collaborating with partners from LGBTQ+, aging, anti-racism, and other movements to advance collective goals.
6. Playing an important role in global LGBTQ+ aging advocacy through initiatives like the LGBTI Elders Advancing Initiative in collaboration with partners in Central America and Asia.

How SAGE Helps the Elders in the LGBT Community

SAGE's commitment to supporting LGBT older adults goes beyond just providing services; it's about creating a community where individuals feel seen, heard, and valued. Through a comprehensive range of programs and initiatives, SAGE aims to address the specific needs and challenges faced by LGBT elders.

In addition to offering social support groups and activities that foster connections and combat isolation, SAGE provides advocacy and legal services to protect the rights of LGBT seniors. Housing assistance and referrals ensure that elders have safe and affirming living environments, while health and wellness programs cater to their unique healthcare needs.

SAGE provides a wide range of services and support to LGBT older adults, including:

• Social support groups and activities
• Advocacy and legal services
• Housing assistance and referrals
• Health and wellness programs
• Caregiver support
• Intergenerational programming

By offering these services and resources, SAGE helps LGBT elders to feel connected, supported, and empowered. The organization also works to educate healthcare providers, housing providers, and other service providers about the unique needs and experiences of LGBT older adults, helping to create more inclusive and welcoming environments.

Supporting LGBTQIA Elders

It is essential that we prioritize the well-being and inclusion of LGBT elders for several key reasons:

1. LGBT older adults are more likely to live alone and lack family support
2. They have higher rates of poverty and economic insecurity compared to their straight counterparts
3. LGBT elders are more likely to experience social isolation and loneliness
4. They face higher rates of discrimination and mistreatment in healthcare and long-term care settings
5. LGBT older adults have unique health and wellness needs that are often overlooked or misunderstood by service providers

By supporting organizations like SAGE and advocating for the rights and well-being of LGBT elders, we can help to address these disparities and ensure that all older adults have access to the support and resources they need to live happy, healthy, and fulfilling lives.

Conclusion

SAGE is a vital organization that is making a real difference in the lives of LGBT older adults. Through its direct services, advocacy efforts, and educational initiatives, SAGE is working to create a more inclusive and supportive world for LGBT elders.

As a society, we all have a role to play in supporting and uplifting our LGBT elders. Whether it's volunteering with a local SAGE affiliate, donating to the organization, or simply being an ally and advocate for LGBT older adults, every action we take can make a difference.

If you would like to learn more about SAGE or get involved with the organization, we encourage you to visit their website at sageusa.org or call their helpline at (877) 360-LGBT.

Together, we can build a world where all older adults, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, are treated with dignity, respect, and love.

Your generous donations help us continue our mission and provide essential services to those in need. Please consider making a contribution to support our work and make a positive impact in the lives of our community members. Donate today to help us create a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone. Click here to learn more.

At Unique Point of Refuge, we are committed to supporting and empowering the LGBTQIA community, including our elders. If you or someone you know is in need of support or resources, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at (323) 499-1193 or [email protected]. We are here for you.