Caring for a spouse, partner, close friend, or family member is one of the most important roles you’ll play. As our loved ones age it’s likely a matter of when, not if, they will need our help. Nearly 44 million Americans—1 in 5 adults— are caregivers for a relative or friend over age 50.1 It may start with driving your loved one to get groceries or going to the doctor. Later, you may find yourself taking more time off from work, preparing meals, or handling bills.
If your loved one identifies as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender (LGBT), you will likely face extra challenges around caregiving. LGBT older adults are twice as likely to be single and four times less likely to have children than their non-LGBT counterparts. Many are estranged from their biological families which means they’re less likely to have the traditional caregiver support that many older adults rely on…