3A: Understanding the Unique Needs & Barriers of the Older LGBTQIA+ Population

In 23 years of practice serving older adults in their homes, I have witnessed, practically and from research, that the older adult LGBTQIA+ population has a unique set of needs and barriers because of a history of traumatic discrimination. This session will help gerontologists understand sexual orientation and gender identity in the context of that historical perspective to create practices that are welcoming and affirming for the older adult LGBTQIA+ population and their careers. In our efforts to create an age-friendly state, country and world, we need to be sure to focus on ALL segments of the older adult population, including those who identify as LGBTQIA+.

Learning Objectives:

• Explain biological sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression
• Trace the historical experiences that shape LGBT older adults' lives
• Describe the unique barriers faced by LGBT older adults
• Identify opportunities to support welcoming services for LGBT older adults

3B: Becoming: An Essential Grief/Hope Continuum 

Too often images of aging minimize becoming, especially for those living with losses. Static or reactive approaches can undermine future stories. Honestly facing losses AND embracing one's future will be addressed as a continuum of well-being.

Learning Objectives:

• Distinguish changes and transitions
• Evaluate their ways of working with aging persons living with losses
• Discern distinctions between optimism and honest hope

3C: AFMN Speaker

This presentation is a power point with lecture that goes through many points about the sexual health and wellness of marginalized folks as it pertains to patients in group homes and assisted living centers/memory cares. The presentation will touch on the importance of physical touch, sexual self advocacy, barriers, beliefs, warning signs of abuse and how staff can answer sex related questions.

Learning Objectives:

Build awareness of one's comfort level with the topic of sex and sexuality when interacting with Patients. Learn techniques for answering questions and supporting Patients with sexual health needs. Learn considerations for unique sexual behaviors.

Review benefits of supporting sexual health of patients and the warning signs of abuse.

3D: Mission to Practice: A Private University’s Journey to Becoming an Age Friendly University

Funded by an Age-Friendly Community Grant, St. Thomas embarked on a journey to explore becoming a part of the Age-Friendly University Global Network. In this session, participants will learn how St. Thomas worked towards this designation. The presentation will also highlight the ways in which the University of St. Thomas, inspired by Catholic intellectual tradition is advancing the common good for older adults.

3D: Stronger Together: Fostering Multigenerational Inclusion and Connection at the YMCA  (1:15 presentation)

Support for inter-generational social engagement efforts in this increasingly diverse community.

3E: Healthy Aging Community Learning Project: Survey Before Service

Inter-generational community engagement to better understand needs of Latine elders and their families related to services and caregiving; includes training and employing community youth to undertake engagement.

3E: Unlocking the Power of Intergenerational Opportunities  (1:15 presentation)

Through the support of the Minnesota Age Friendly Grant, West Central Area Schools has been able to facilitate weekly visits to four different senior facilities throughout their district at all grade levels. Both seniors and students have experienced benefits from these intergenerational opportunities creating shared memories and building lasting connections. Join this presentation to better understand the structural components of this initiative, enjoy the “feel-good stories” and heartwarming pictures, and learn how you can do this in your communities.