What About The Seniors?

[Editorial]

I think that everyone who is LGBTQ+ knows the spectrum, how our gender identity and sexual attraction are on a spectrum. But I’m talking about the age spectrum.

You see everything for LGBTQ+ youth… but almost zero for LGBTQ+ seniors. Age is a spectrum also!

Yes, there are senior centers that are open to all. Do you know what it is like if you show up with your partner or if you are trans? Probably nothing.

But isn’t that good?

Well, in the old days, religious groups used to call it shunning. However, that was on purpose; they wanted to shun a person, but it is different at a senior center. They don’t shun you; they just avoid you. For me, when I go to an event like the town history lectures, no one sits next to me.

I’m not thinking of a senior program at LGBTQ+ community centers but rather a room. With some upholstered chairs, a table to play cards or games, and a TV. What I envision is: Monday, board games day; Tuesday, card games; Wednesday is movie day; and other days to drop in where you can be with others who don’t stare and mumble.

I also wondered if affirming churches might be interested. Many already have senior programs, meeting rooms, kitchens, and volunteers. Why not partner with LGBTQ+ organizations to host a weekly drop-in?

Disconnected: The Escalating Challenge of Loneliness Among Adults 45-Plus

By Lona Choi-Allum, AARP Research & Gerard 'Chuck' Rainville, AARP Research Updated June 30,

June 30, 2026

Loneliness among adults 45 and older is rising at an alarming rate. According to a recent AARP study, 40% of U.S. adults now report being lonely, a significant increase from 35% in both 2010 and 2018. This national study reveals that loneliness is not only persistent but growing.

[…]

Today’s loneliness epidemic is shaped by shifting social landscapes. Adults in their 40s and 50s are especially vulnerable, facing unique pressures such as work stress, caregiving responsibilities, and changing family dynamics. Men now report higher rates of loneliness than women (42% vs. 37%), a shift from the 2018 gender parity. Notably, those at the younger end of the 45-plus spectrum experience the highest rates, while loneliness tends to decrease with age, higher education, and greater household income.

[…]

The rise in loneliness among midlife and older adults is a challenge we cannot ignore. Social connections are a lifeline; reaching out to a friend, engaging in community activities, or simply starting a conversation can make a meaningful difference. By fostering a more connected society, we can create a community where everyone feels seen, valued and supported. Visit AARP Better Together to learn more about connecting with others in your community.

The Stonewall generation is starting to enter long-term care facilities but many are still aging in place, alone.. We have fought for laws to protect them there. Now we need to concentrate on those who are still living alone at home… getting them out of the house and together with others who don't stare.

I have no idea how many would show up for senior drop-in centers at LGBTQ+ centers. 20? 10? 5? Or even one will be a victory.

Here are some bonus points: you might even get senior volunteers to help out at the center! Or even get them to help out with the youth programs… who knows where this will lead.

To paraphrase Arlo Guthrie’s “Alice’s Restaurant”:

You know, if one person, just one person, it will be a victory. And if two people, two people, do it, they may think this is great! And three people do it, three, can you imagine, three people walking in to play Quibbles. They may think it's a hit. And can you, can you imagine fifty people a day, I said fifty people a day walking in to play Bingo. And, friends, they may think it's a movement.

But you will never know until you try it!

[/Editorial]