Ways to support LGBTQIA+ caregivers

This article is featured in the Grayce Library, a robust media library spanning hundreds of care topics that answer thousands of care questions. All content hosted in the Grayce Library is written by vetted sources and expert-reviewed to ensure members can trust the information to make informed decisions when caring for loved ones.

Caring for a loved one is a rewarding and demanding task in and of itself, but LGBTQIA+ caregivers often face unique challenges that add an extra layer of complexity to the role. Despite these additional obstacles, when compared to non-LGBTQIA+ peers, LGBTQIA+ people are more likely to be primary caregivers and are more likely to care for their friends and chosen family.

Whether it’s LGBTQIA+ caregivers or their loved ones who are LGBTQIA+ caregivers, Grayce and dedicated Care Partners are here to help identify some of the unique challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community and provide resources to support caregivers’ well-being.

Understanding obstacles & resources for LGBTQIA+ caregivers

Healthcare disparities

LGBTQIA+ caregivers and their loved ones may be purposefully excluded from certain care or be reluctant to seek medical or social services due to discrimination or lack of understanding.

To address this, LGBTQIA+ caregivers must find healthcare environments for their loved ones that are inclusive and respectful. If employees in this community need help finding an accepting healthcare provider in their area, Care Partners can help. Grayce members are encouraged to message them in the app for personalized, non-judgmental support.

Legal challenges

LGBTQIA+ caregivers often care for their chosen family, which can lead to unique legal challenges, particularly in places where legal recognition of same-sex relationships and non-biological relationships is limited. To get ahead of these issues, caregivers need to put the proper legal documents into place, such as power of attorney and healthcare proxies.

Caregivers can connect with LGBTQIA+ legal services or local advocacy groups for guidance, like Lambda Legal. They offer legal resources for individuals facing discrimination or legal challenges. They also help find information on issues related to healthcare, family law, and more.

Social isolation

LGBTQIA+ caregivers report higher levels of depression and isolation when compared to their non-LGBTQIA+ caregiving counterparts. Stigma or lack of understanding from friends and family can compound the stress of being a caregiver.

Caregivers should seek out LGBTQIA+ support groups, whether online or locally, to connect with others and cultivate a community. Resources like Opening Doors and the LGBTQ Caregiver Center provide spaces for LGBTQIA+ caregivers to connect, share experiences, and offer mutual support.

Financial strain

While finances are a common concern for many caregivers, most LGBTQIA+ caregivers report more financial strain related to caregiving. Workplace discrimination or limited access to certain benefits can exacerbate financial challenges.

Online resources such as the US-based National Resource Center on LGBTQ+ Aging and the U.K.’s Turn2Us offer financial assistance and information tailored to LGBTQIA+ individuals and caregivers.

How Grayce can help

When LGBTQIA+ caregivers face the typical challenges of caring for a loved one, they also have to deal with unique ones specific to the LGBTQIA+ community. Whether employees in this community need help with maintaining their well-being as caregivers or navigating systemic issues, Care Partners can help. Grayce members can contact them to receive tailored resources, recommendations for navigating the legal landscape in their country as an LGBTQIA+ person, and help to create a personalized care plan for themself or their loved one.

If supporting employees with family care in the LGBTQIA+ community is a priority, discover the difference Grayce can make.

For Employers 

Sources:

• Center for Health Care Strategies: LGBTQ+ Caregivers: Challenges, Policy Needs, and Opportunities
• Family Caregiver Alliance: Special Concerns of LGBTQ+ Caregivers
• Fortune: LGBTQ+ caregivers carry an added burdon of isolation, stigma, and lack of support that can harm their physical and mental health
• LGBT Aging Center: Caregiving in the LGBT Community
• National Alliance for Caregiving: The “Typical” LGBTQ Caregiver