On February 27, 2025, Washington Park in Pasadena, was the setting for a community event hosted by Pasadena Village and AARP. This gathering aimed to provide resources and support to senior caregivers, with a particular focus on the unique challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community.

An Inclusive Initiative

The seminar, titled Prepare to Care - A Planning Guide for Caregivers in the LGBT Community, was a collaborative effort between Pasadena Village, AARP, and SAGE (Advocacy & Services for LGBT Elders). The event brought together Pasadena Villagers and community members.

Insightful Presentations

Vince King, a volunteer AARP presenter and member of the LGBTQ+ community, led the discussion. He had experience caring for his elderly father. He was joined by Sam Alonso, who works for AARP at their Pasadena office.

Key Highlights from the Presentation

- Introduction: Vince emphasized the significance and rewards of caregiving, particularly within the LGBT community. He highlighted that caregiving can be especially challenging for LGBT seniors due to factors such as social isolation, discrimination, and limited traditional family support.

- Start a Conversation: Vince encouraged attendees to initiate early conversations about caregiving. He stressed the importance of discussing preferences, medical needs, and legal matters with loved ones to ensure their wishes are respected. Sensitivity and understanding were underscored as crucial components of these conversations.

- Make a Plan: Attendees learned how to create a comprehensive caregiving plan that includes medical care, daily living assistance, and financial considerations. The need for flexibility and the ability to adjust the plan as circumstances change was highlighted.

- Form a Team: Caregiving is a collaborative effort. Building a support network of family, friends, and professionals to share responsibilities and provide emotional support is important. For LGBT caregivers, finding inclusive and affirming resources was identified as vital.

- Find Support: Numerous resources are available to support caregivers, including local organizations, online communities, and professional services. Attendees were urged to seek out LGBT-friendly resources that understand the unique challenges faced by LGBT seniors.

- Care for Yourself: Caregivers were reminded to prioritize self-care. Caregiving can be physically and emotionally demanding. Information was provided regarding respite care, support groups, and maintaining one's health and well-being.

An Engaging Q&A Session

Villagers and community guests asked questions and shared their insights.

Villagers Donna Sider and Kayla Partridge brought up the likelihood of a DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) document being followed. Vince explained that different health providers like a hospital may have very specific forms they require, which may improve the likelihood of the patient’s wishes being followed.

Villager Wayne April also pointed out that people in relationships have to have the legal documents allowing for visitation and decision-making by the partner. If not, unsupportive family may exclude the partner.

Looking Ahead

Copies of the Prepare to Care - A Planning Guide for Caregivers in the LGBT Community were handed out along with other materials with links to useful resources. These can be found on the AARP website here and on the Pasadena Village's AgingSGV website.

Pasadena Village is grateful to Pallas Care for providing refreshments for everyone and for representatives from USC Verdugo Hills Hospital Community Resource Center for the Aging to adding to the conversation and resources available in our community.

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