According to Out & Visible, a 2017 study from SAGE, the number of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender elders in America is growing rapidly. By 2030, there will be roughly 7 million LGBTQ+ adults over 50 nationwide, more than double the current estimate. 

We all need a safe and affordable place to live, with friends and neighbors to share our lives. These are universal human concerns. However, the LGBTQ+ community faces unique housing issues and a greater risk of isolation and loneliness as they age.

This is my third go-round with being the long-distance sibling and I’ve learned quite a bit. Frankly, I made every mistake you could possibly make. And I know most of the experts!  So here are my personal tips on how to navigate the waters when you visit. Some of these may seem silly, but with family members – particularly your siblings – little things can turn into big issues really quickly.

I first met Joan Lunden on the set of a special TV program Joan hosted for RLTV, “Taking Care with Joan Lunden,” where Joan interviewed me as an expert on caring for an older loved one at home.  I turned the tables on Joan and interviewed the famous TV interviewer for this story which is excerpted from my book, A Cast of Caregivers – Celebrity Stories to Help You Prepare to Care.