#014 - If you're a caregiver, you know that caregiving can be rewarding and incredibly challenging, all at the same time. If you're an LGBTQ caregiver, you'll have some unique challenges that straight caregivers don't typically have. Some of these being that LGTBQ Caregivers experience more isolation while caregiving and have poorer mental and physical health in the long run. 

Here's the good news... we can improve this. This episode will share many resources and tips for helping LGTBQ caregivers live their best lives in the midst of caregiving. 

I want you to have the most up to date information on LGTBQ caregivers, so today, we go straight to the source and interview Dr. Tim Johnston, Senior Director of National Projects at SAGE. 

SAGE (Services and Advocacy for GLBT Elders) is a national advocacy and services organization that's been looking out for LGBT elders since 1978. SAGE builds welcoming communities and keeps LGBT issues in the national conversation which ensures a fulfilling future for all LGBT people.

Here’s a look inside my interview with Dr. Tim Johnston:

• [04:32] Dr. Johnston talks about LGTBQ caregivers and what may be contributing to LGTBQ caregivers having higher rates of isolation while providing care.
• [06:35] When caring for a loved one with dementia, transgender caregivers may experience their loved one with dementia not recognizing them.Dr. Johnston reveals some heart-tugging examples of this and other examples.
• [08:02] Dr. Johnston and I discuss the relationship woundsthat may have existed in the relationship between the LGTBQ caregiver and their loved one and how the caregiver can maintain boundaries and a sense of self and personal integrity during the caregiving journey. 
• [12:11] Dr. Johnston shares tips for what LGTBQ caregivers can do to manage stress and promote wellness for themselves.
• [14:48] Discover the must have LGTBQ caregiving resource guides recommended by Dr. Johnston. 
• [17:38] Dr. Johnston shares how LGTBQ caregivers can find supportive and affirming caregiving communities. 
• [20:01] Family may not mean the same thing to you as it does to me. Dr. Johnston shares the importance of broadening our definition of family, especially when it comes to LGTBQ older adults and LGTBQ caregivers.
• [22:42] Professionals working with older adults and caregivers can create environments that are welcoming to LGTBQ folks. Dr. Johnston shares how.
  
  

By the end of this episode, you'll have a deeper understanding of the unique needs of LGBTQ caregivers, what LGTBQ caregivers can do to enhance their physical and mental wellness and reduce their risk of isolation, and what health professionals and allies can do to to create affirming places for older LGTBQ caregivers.

Check out the show notes here!

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