Elder Pride Indy Collaborative launches LGBTQ+ Elder Needs Assessment

The Elder Pride Indy Collaborative (EPIC) announced a new assessment for older members of the LGBTQ+ community. Officially launched on Feb. 19, the LGBTQ+ Elder Needs Assessment is EPIC’s new comprehensive initiative identifying the areas in which Central Indiana’s LGBTQ+ individuals aged 55 and older lack care and services. Led by the Damien Center, EPIC is a coalition formed by local community partners to ensure the growing population of aging LGBTQ+ Hoosiers and their caregivers continue to have access to resources necessary to thrive, according to a press release. “As Central Indiana’s elder LGBTQ+ population continues to grow, it’s essential that to address their unique needs and challenges,” Alan Witchey, president and CEO of Damien Center, said in a statement. “Many LGBTQ+ seniors have faced a lifetime of discrimination, leading to disparities in health care access, financial security and social support. At Damien Center, we are committed to creating inclusive programs and resources that honor their resilience and ensure they can age with dignity, respect and the care they deserve.” A 2014 report from SAGE — a national advocacy organization for older LGBTQ+ adults — found many LGBTQ+ seniors “feel reluctant to disclose their sexual orientations or gender identities to...