CHARACTERISTICS OF LGBT CAREGIVERS OF OLDER ADULTS: RESULTS FROM THE NATIONAL CAREGIVING IN THE U.S. 2015 SURVEY

摘要

Using data from the Caregiving in the U.S. 2015 national survey, we compared characteristics of LGBT and non-LGBT caregivers of older adults and explored predictors of caregiver strain. LGBT caregivers were younger, more racially/ethnically diverse, and less frequently a spouse/partner compared with their heterosexual counterparts. LGBT caregivers more frequently reported helping with medical nursing tasks and reported higher levels of financial strain. While LGBT identity was not an independent predictor of greater strain, characteristics more frequently reported by LGBT caregivers were, for instance helping with medical nursing tasks. Additionally, LGBT individuals who were children of the older adult were more likely to report higher levels of emotional strain than other relationship types. This is one of the first national studies to compare the characteristics and experiences of LGBT caregivers of older adults to their non-LGBT caregiver counterparts. Future research is needed to understand better the physical, emotional, and financial challenges faced by LGBT caregivers, as well as their use of caregiver resources. In addition, future policies aimed at improving caregiver support and services for LGBT caregivers and non-traditional family members should be considered.