Celebrating LGBTQ+ Older Adults during Pride Month
Originally published 5/26/2023, Updated on 5/20/2026
Pride Month, observed each June, is a time to recognize and celebrate the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, plus (LGBTQ+) community. For LGBTQ+ older adults, Pride Month offers an opportunity to celebrate identity, reflect on lived experiences, and highlight the importance of inclusive, supportive care as people age.
It is also a time to raise awareness of the unique challenges many LGBTQ+ older adults face and to encourage continued progress toward more equitable healthcare and social support systems.
Facts on LGBTQ+ Aging
There are an estimated 3 million LGBTQ+ adults over the age of 50 in the United States, a number expected to grow to around 7 million by 2030 (1).
Research shows LGBTQ+ individuals experience higher rates of health disparities, including chronic conditions and earlier onset of disabilities compared to their heterosexual peers (2).
Many LGBTQ+ adults 45+ are concerned about having enough support from family and friends as they age (3).
LGBTQ+ older adults are also more likely to serve as caregivers themselves, with 21% providing care for friends compared to 6% of heterosexual older adults (4).
88% say they would feel more comfortable using long-term care services where staff are trained to meet the needs of LGBTQ+ individuals (5).
Looking ahead
Despite these challenges, LGBTQ+ older adults have been at the forefront of advocacy and progress, helping shape a more inclusive future for generations to come. For benefit leaders, Pride Month serves as a reminder of the importance of designing benefits and support systems that recognize diverse needs and experiences, especially as the population of LGBTQ+ older adults continues to grow.
At Via Benefits, we are committed to supporting retirees, clients, and colleagues of all identities by promoting access to inclusive healthcare solutions and fostering a culture of respect and belonging.
Sources:
SAGE, and National Resource Center on LGBTQ+ Aging. “Facts on LGBT Aging.” SAGE, 1 May 2025, https://www.sageusa.org/resource/facts-on-lgbt-aging/
Kates, Jennifer, et al. "Health and Access to Care and Coverage for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Individuals in the U.S. | KFF" Kff, 3 May. 2018, https://www.kff.org/racial-equity-and-health-policy/issue-brief/health-and-access-to-care-and-coverage-for-lesbian-gay-bisexual-and-transgender-individuals-in-the-u-s/.
Houghton, Angela. “Maintaining Dignity: A Survey of LGBT Adults Age 45 and Older.” AARP, 26 Mar. 2018, https://www.aarp.org/pri/topics/aging-experience/demographics/maintaining-dignity-lgbt/.
"Retirement Guide For LGBTQ+ Americans – SAGE" Sageusa, 27 Oct. 2020, https://www.sageusa.org/news-posts/retirement-guide-for-lgbtq-americans/.
Houghton, Angela. "Maintaining Dignity: A Survey of LGBT Adults Age 45 and Older" AARP, Mar. 2018, https://www.aarp.org/research/topics/life/info-2018/maintaining-dignity-lgbt.html.
