The holiday season is a time of joy and togetherness for many, but for a significant portion of LGBTQ+ elders, it can be a stark reminder of isolation and loneliness. Reports estimate that there are currently 3 million LGBTQ+ adults over age 50 in the United States, a number expected to grow to 7 million by 2030.
Many have no one to turn to during the holidays, with LGBTQ+ elders being twice as likely to live alone and four times less likely to have children than their non-LGBTQ+ peers. With 53 percent of LGBTQ+ elders reporting feelings of isolation, the stakes are high, as loneliness and isolation are linked to poor physical health, comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day. […]
Click here to view the full piece. This story was originally published by the Advocate on December 19, 2024.
