Coping strategies used by LGB older adults in facing and anticipating health challenges: A narrative analysis. Issue 3 (3rd July 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Seelman, Kristie L.; Lewinson, Terri; Engleman, Lily; Maley, Olivia R.; Allen, Alex
• Is Part Of: Journal of gay & lesbian social services. Volume 29:Issue 3(2017)
• Page Start: 300
• Page End: 318
• Publication Date: 2017-07-03
• Subjects: aging -- health -- gay -- lesbian -- bisexual -- coping; Social work with gays -- Periodicals; Social work with lesbians -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; 362.8964
• DOI: 10.1080/10538720.2017.1310644
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1053-8720

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Given that lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) older adults face notable health disparities compared to their heterosexual counterparts, there is a need for understanding how LGB adults cope with health challenges in late life. The current study analyzes narratives from nine LGB adults age 65 and older living in an urban area in the Southeast United States. Participants spoke of coping strategies related to health promotion behaviors, shifting perspectives of health and body, trusting in spirituality for comfort, and accepting the end of life. We discuss implications for social services professionals who work with older LGB adults and for future research.