Report Identifies Disparities Among Gay Elderly Residents
Older lesbian, gay and bisexual California residents have higher rates of chronic diseases and mental health issues than their heterosexual peers, according to a report from the UCLA Center for Health Policy Research. The report found that older lesbian and bisexual women were more likely to put off care and that elderly gay and bisexual men had higher rates of diabetes, high blood pressure and psychological stress. The report says that a higher degree of cultural competency and sensitivity is needed among health care providers to improve care quality for older lesbian, gay and bisexual adults.
- "Isolation, Chronic Disease More Common Among Older Gays, Lesbians" (Lin, California Watch, 3/30).