1. Shelby L. Simpson
Loma Linda University
Loma Linda, CA 92350
January 28, 2015
The Oakland Press
48 West Huron
Pontaic, MI
Dear Editor;
I was pleasantly surprised to discover that the Michigan Area Agencies on Aging have
established the much needed training to staff at their local agencies to better serve LGBT elders
and provide more competent services. It is remarkable that this agency is becoming a pioneer for
this growing population not only at the state-level but also nationally, with a presentation
scheduled for the annual American Society on Aging Conference this March.
According to the LGBT Elder Initiative there are approximately 3.8 million LGBT Americans
age 65+ and this number is anticipated to grow to 8 million by 2030. The issue of services and
resources for LGBT elders is one that will continue to grow as the aging population does. Also, it
is of great importance for those in the field to be sensitive and knowledgeable about issues this
population is facing.
This is a subject of personal significance as my fathers are gay and eventually will be members
of the elderly LGBT community. A community which has been invisible and often goes
overlooked by advocates, a community that is now seeking respect and the services they deserve.
Further, as I am currently studying an MSW and a Master of Science Gerontology, I am
constantly looking for resources and information for this vulnerable population. This is fantastic
news for professionals in the field and for the clients being served and I applaud Michigan's Area
Agencies on Aging for being at the forefront of this movement and promoting competence in
practice.
Sincerely,
Shelby L. Simpson
MSW & MS-Gerontology Student
Loma Linda University