Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) elders are often an "invisible" minority, however, they have unique concerns affecting their health and aging process.

There is an LGBT specific, though varied, culture that necessitates cultural competancy skills when working with LGBT persons. Understanding the key issues facing LGBT invidivuals as they age is essential inthe effort to work to alleviate these concerns. Learning culturally competent skills for working with LGBT elders creates a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all clients in your care.

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Alice is 75 years old. Her partner of 48 years, Mary, was diagnosed three years ago with Alzheimer's disease at the age of 79.

Alice became the fulltime caregiver of her partner, resisting even the assistance of an in-home caregiver assistant out of fear that their relationship would not be understood.

Last fall, when Mary's health took a significant turn, the responsiblity grew too difficult for Alice who had begun to have her own failing health concerns, so she was forced to admit Mary into a nursing home. It was tremendously difficult for Alice that Mary no longer was in their home.

Many nights, including the night that mary died, Alice desperately wanted to stay with her. Unfortunately, the nursing staff told Alice that she was not family and was not allowed to remain with her partner past visiting hours.