In this episode of Aging Well, host Gretchen Knowlton talks with Billy Rogers, the President of Golden Rainbows of Illinois South and a longtime advocate for the LQBTQ+ community. Drawing on more than 40 years of experience, Billy shares powerful insights into the realities LGBTQ+ older adults face today, from isolation and healthcare distrust to the ongoing need for safe, welcoming spaces. 

Listeners will learn why many LGBTQ+ older adults may “go back into the closet” when seeking care, how barriers like transportation and lack of family support impact aging, and why building trust in services is critical. Billy also highlights the importance of intergenerational relationships, emphasizing how younger and older communities can learn from and support one another. 

This conversation offers practical examples of creating inclusive environments with curiosity and simple signals, to larger systemic challenges in housing, healthcare, and food access. Whether you’re an older adult, caregiver, professional, or ally, this episode provides meaningful ways to foster connection, dignity, and belonging as we age.  

Resources: 

Golden Rainbows of Illinois South 

Illinois LGBTQ Aging Commission Report 

Disrupting Disparities Report 

SAGE (Services & Advocacy for LGBTQ+ Elders) 

Area Agencies on Aging services & Eldercare Locator 

Adult Protective Services (APS) 

SNAP food assistance 

LIHEAP (Energy Assistance Program) 

Farmers Market Nutrition Programs 

Rainbow Cafe LGBTQ support

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