Functional Limitations and Access to Long-Term Services and Supports Among Sexual Minority Older Adults

J Appl Gerontol. 2022 Sep;41(9):2056-2062. doi: 10.1177/07334648221099006. Epub 2022 May 10.

Abstract

Objective: Little is known about sexual minority (SM) older adults' activities of daily living (ADL) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) limitations and their subsequent access to long-term services and supports (LTSS). Methods: We analyzed cross-sectional data from the 2016 Health and Retirement Study limited to individuals ≥50 years old. Bivariate analyses were performed to examine 1) sexual identity differences in the prevalence of ADL/IADL limitations and 2) associations of sexual identity with having ADL/IADL limitations and having access to help with ADL/IADL limitations. Results: Our sample consisted of 3833 older adults, 6% (n = 213) were SM. Compared to heterosexual participants, bisexual older adults had greater reports of ADL/IADL limitations (20.9% vs. 35.9%, p = 0.013). Among those who reported having ADL/IADL limitations (n = 803), there were no sexual identity differences in accessing help for ADL/IADL limitations (p = .901). Discussion: Our findings contribute to the limited research on LTSS access among SM older adults.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Activities of Daily Living*
  • Aged
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Humans
  • Prevalence
  • Retirement
  • Sexual and Gender Minorities*