Challenges that LGBT Seniors Face

Kim Hegwood | February 18, 2025

LGBTQ+ Discrimination in Senior Centers: “How can they acclimate themselves from identifying as being in an LGBT community and then having to just not disclose what they are once they go into, a senior center or a nursing home, whereas it’s not recognized there.”— Tracee Seals
 

Welcome to another episode of Life Happens with Kim Hegwood. Today, we have a special guest, Tracee Seals, who will be shedding light on an important topic: the challenges faced by LGBT seniors as they age. Tracee discusses the difficulties these individuals encounter when transitioning into residential or nursing home centers, where
their identity may not be recognized or accepted. As a result, many LGBTQ seniors choose not to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity for fear of discrimination. This leads to feelings of withdrawal, depression, and even suicidal thoughts.

However, there is hope. Tracee highlights the work being done in Houston to support the aging LGBT community,
Additionally, Tracee explains the importance of healthcare and corporate training to ensure that senior service
providers are equipped with the cultural sensitivity and competency needed to better support LGBTQ seniors. Join us as we delve into this crucial topic and explore how we can make a difference in the lives of LGBTQ seniors.

Title:

Here is what Kim will ask Tracee.

1.
What kinds of challenges do LGBTQ seniors face when aging? How is their aging experience different?

2.
Are there services in Houston specifically for the aging LGBT community?

3.
Your organization offers healthcare and corporate training. Can you tell us more about that?

4.
What can family caregivers do to help their LGBT seniors?

5.
What can we do as a community to help?

How to Contact Tracee

www.lgbtcouncilonaging.org, info@lgbtcouncilonaging.org,
8327392902

Bio:

Tracee Seals serves as the Executive Director
for 100 Black Men Houston Chapter as well as the CEO of TraceeSealsSpeaks, LLC.
Tracee is also the co-owner of Elevating Women Empowerment Group. A business that provides networking events for female entrepreneurs and business services.
She is an award-winning small business entrepreneur, as well as a two-time SXSW
Presenter of Innovative Technology (2023 &2019) and International Speaker.
She has worked in development and fundraising development for various non-profits
as well as educational organizations. She serves as an Advocate for the
LGBTQIA+ community and Healthcare & Wellness entities.

Tracee works within the community educating
individuals on aspects of healthy living, disease processes, cultural
sensitivity advocacy for seniors. In 2022, Tracee was awarded the
acknowledgment of the Top 50 Women Leaders in Houston as well as the Top 50
Black Entrepreneurs & Professionals of Houston. Tracee holds a B.S.B.A
degree in Business Administration and Literary Arts, master’s in healthcare
administration, from Belhaven Christian University and currently working on her
PhD in Healthcare Administration. Tracee holds certifications as a OPA-C
Orthopedic Physician Assistant-Certified), CHW (Certified Community Health
Worker), CPS (Certified Public Speaker). Tracee is a member of Delta Sigma
Theta Sorority Inc. In her spare time, she volunteers and holds the position as
the current Board President for The LGBT Council on Aging and Adult Protective
Service Region 6

Contact Kim Hegwood

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