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The Impact of Trauma History on End of Life for LGBT Elders

February 2018 | Rev. Mary Martha Thiel ACPE Certified Education BCC APC Director of Clinical Pastoral Education Hebrew SeniorLife

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Today’s LGBT elders may find the end of life more challenging than do other elders. Various subgroups of LGBT elders are more likely than their non-LGBT peers to suffer from mood disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, substance abuse disorders, and be living with HIV/AIDS. Many do not have the biological family support that others do, and many suffer from lower socio-economic status, with less access to quality health care and health insurance.

This fact sheet provides an understanding of how a history of trauma may impact end of life spiritual support for LGBT elders and suggestions for professional caregivers.

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