Older LGBT+ Adults and Cultural Competence Among Residential Staff

Background: The population of older LGBT+ adults is increasing, yet many face fear, isolation, and homophobia in care facilities. A lack of LGBT+-specific training among health care staff perpetuates heteronormative practices in care settings. Objective: This project evaluated whether a 2-hour, in-person training could enhance residential care staff's knowledge, skills, and awareness of social oppression faced by LGBT+ individuals. Methods: A literature review identified the best practices for staff education. Eleven staff members from an urban southwestern residential community participated after providing written consent. Participants completed the Ally Identity Measure survey pre- and posttraining, assessing knowledge and skills, openness and support, and awareness of oppression (r = .73; α = .88). Results: Descriptive statistics and paired t tests showed statistically significant improvement in overall scores (p < .001). Results are limited by small sample size and the pilot nature of the project. Conclusions: These findings support that brief cultural competency training enhances staff understanding of LGBT+ aging issues, with a focus on creating safe environments for residents. It is a call to action to continue inclusive efforts for older LGBT+ adults and provide staff with tools to engage with residents more fully aware of societal stressors and historical oppression. Implications for Nursing: Understanding the discrepancy between staff knowledge and understanding of LGBT+ older adults invites the opportunity to apply the underpinnings of nursing training and philosophical foundations. Nursing embodies holistic, whole-person care, and cultural competence aligns with caring for the person in their entirety.