AARP report highlights experiences with loneliness, health care access and caregivingBy Michelle Crouch, AARPAugust 12, 2024Ron Blake doesn’t just talk about the importance of social connections — he lives it.The 55-year-old gay artist and activist says he makes it a point to introduce himself to someone new almost every day. Blake says he believes having a close-knit group of friends is especially important for LGBTQ+ older adults, who might not have children or who could be estranged from family.“Even if you’re married and have a spouse, if they’re your only friend and something happens to them, you could be left alone,” says Blake, who lives in Phoenix.It’s a common worry among people in the LGBTQ+ community, according to a new AARP survey of more than 2,200 LGBTQ+ adults ages 45 and older, conducted in April.
The AARP Dignity 2024 survey found that four out of five older LGBTQ+ adults, or 78 percent, are concerned about having enough social support as they get older. Women and Black respondents, along with those who have a disability, were more likely to say they are “extremely” or “very” concerned about a lack of social support in the future.
June 24. 2019Research shows that LGBTQ older adults are at higher risk for many chronic medical conditions, yet are also resilient and proactive when it comes to taking care of their health.But one burden for LGBTQ older adults is more subtle and pervasive: social isolation.A health hazard of its own, loneliness has been linked to heart disease, high blood pressure, early onset of disability, greater risk of cognitive decline and premature mortality. And while accessing affordable, stable housing is an issue for the aging population at large, LGBTQ seniors are particularly vulnerable to difficulties securing housing and finding supportive communities, said Karen Fredriksen Goldsen, a University of Washington professor of social work and principal investigator of the landmark longitudinal study, Aging with Pride: National Health, Aging, and Sexuality/Gender Study.Launched in 2010, the National Institute on Aging, recently awarded nearly $3 million to Aging with Pride for the next five years. Researchers are following over 2,400 LGBTQ adults, ranging in age from 50 to over 100, in every census division throughout the United States.
When ChatGPT was asked: What are some of the thing that have been tried to help end the isolation? Like having board games, bingo, movie day, day trips, etc.
Ah, got it — you're focusing more on fun, practical, community-based activities that directly help reduce isolation among LGBTQ+ seniors. That’s a fantastic direction — simple, social, and consistent activities can make a big difference.
Here’s a list of activities that have been used successfully in LGBTQ+ senior programs to build community, reduce isolation, and encourage participation:
🎲 Social Activities That Help LGBTQ+ Seniors Feel Connected
🧩 Board Game Days
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Why it works: Fun, familiar, and low-pressure way to start conversations and make new friends.
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Popular choices: Scrabble, Uno, dominoes, Rummikub, card games, trivia games, and cooperative games like “Forbidden Island.”
🏆 Bingo & Prize Games
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Why it works: Easy to learn, engaging, and can be themed (e.g., Pride Bingo, Holiday Bingo).
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Bonus: Small prizes add motivation and fun.
🎬 Movie Afternoons or Movie Clubs
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Why it works: Shared experiences can spark conversation.
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Ideas:
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LGBTQ+ films (e.g., Priscilla, Milk, The Birdcage, The Hours)
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Classic comedies or musicals
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Follow with a short discussion or snack/social time
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🍽️ Potlucks, Coffee Hours, and Social Lunches
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Why it works: Food brings people together!
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Ideas:
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Weekly or monthly themed meals
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Pride-themed snacks or “memory meals” (recipes from participants’ pasts)
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Coffee + chat mornings
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🎨 Arts & Crafts / Creative Workshops
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Why it works: Creative expression and relaxation, especially meaningful for people who may have suppressed parts of themselves.
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Examples:
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Painting, collage, knitting, vision boards
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“Create a Pride Flag” or “My Story in Art” workshops
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🧘 Gentle Movement or Wellness Classes
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Why it works: Combats isolation and supports mental/physical health.
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Activities:
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Chair yoga, light stretching, tai chi
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Meditation or breathwork classes
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LGBTQ+ wellness discussions (e.g., aging and self-care)
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🚐 Day Trips and Group Outings
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Why it works: Shared adventures build bonds quickly.
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Examples:
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Museums, parks, farmer’s markets
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LGBTQ+ history walking tours
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Holiday light tours or beach days
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Attend a Pride event together as a group
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📚 Storytelling / Life Sharing Circles
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Why it works: Many LGBTQ+ seniors feel invisible — giving space to tell their stories helps validate and connect.
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Ideas:
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"Coming Out Stories"
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Memory circle: “The first time I…”
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“Legacy Letters” or writing for future generations
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🎤 Open Mic, Karaoke, or Talent Shows
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Why it works: Fun and affirming — builds confidence and connection.
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Even those who don’t perform love watching others.
💬 Supportive Discussion Groups
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Lightly structured conversations (not therapy) on topics like:
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“Friendship and Connection”
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“What Pride Means to Me”
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“Coping with Change”
These can run alongside the fun activities, creating both playful and meaningful connections.
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Pro Tip:
Programs that succeed at reducing isolation tend to:
✅ Be regular and predictable (e.g., every Thursday afternoon)
✅ Have low barriers to participation (no pressure to share, low or no cost)
✅ Use a mix of fun, food, and friendship
✅ Create affirming, LGBTQ+-friendly spaces with staff or volunteers who understand the community
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