Ask about . . . Gay and Lesbian Lifestyles
Where you live is your home, the place where you should feel comfortable and safe being yourself. In housing developments, the activities and services often place residents in close daily contact with staff and neighbors. Assurances of a reaffirming living environment become particularly important for gay or lesbian residents and those close to them.
While many older gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered persons choose to keep their sexual orientation a private matter, there is a growing acceptance of variations in lifestyles. Some community-based service and care agencies, as well as housing developments, have welcoming policies and make these policies known. However, others may promote a culture of non-acceptance.
When considering a housing relocation decision, the following questions may help you determine how comfortable a particular housing environment might be for you:
- Does the facility's or development's residency agreement or lease have a non-discrimination clause that includes sexual orientation?
- Do the housing and service staff receive training in diversity and cultural competence that includes sexual orientation and gender identity?
- Is there an identified staff member(s) who could be consulted for lesbian- and gay-related issues or problems?
- Does the staff have knowledge of, and access to, lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender health services and community resources? Do these supportive services and resources have ready access to the facility or development?
- Are intake, assessment, and information forms worded to allow for the recognition of unmarried domestic partners or non-biological and non-spousal family relationships (families of choice)?
- Are a resident's chosen family members welcomed as part of the development's family council or decision-making activities regarding a resident's health and service needs and plans?
- Are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgendered residents and their family members, friends, or visitors welcome in the facility or development.
- In the development's social activities, events, and programs, are residents generally accepting of those who practice an alternative lifestyle?
Resources for additional information or assistance:
- SAGE
305 7th Avenue, 6th Floor
New York, New York 10001
(212) 741-2247
info@sageusa.org - LGBT Aging Issues Network
American Society on Aging
833 Market Street, Suite 511
San Francisco, California 94103
(415) 974-9600 or (800) 537-9728
info@asaging.org - Lambda Legal Defense
120 Wall Street, Suite 1500
New York, New York 10005
(212) 809-8585 - New York State Human Rights Law (Article 15 of Executive Law):
Among other protections, this New York State law protects against discrimination in housing accommodations. Subdivision 27 of Section 292 defines the term "sexual orientation." Subdivisions 10, 11, 12, 14, and 15 of Section 292 defines terms related to "housing accommodation."
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