Thomas Kelem 
Board Chair, 
Stonewall Alliance Center, Chico 

Mr. Kelem points out that laws are becoming more inclusive of LGBTQ people. Along with that, employees at various institutions are starting to receive better training re LGBTQ issues. This training needs to extend to institutions for seniors, as they can be behind the times – for example, sometimes partners still have difficulty visiting their spouse in hospitals or long-term care institutions such as rest homes and convalescent hospitals. Staff at these facilities need to be aware that elderly LGBTQ people lived under a great deal of oppression when they were younger, with the constant threat of serious repercussions if anyone “found out.” As a result, when they go to a structured environment, such as an elder care facility, they can become withdrawn and frightened. Mr. Kelem emphasizes the importance of the loved ones of an institutionalized LGBTQ person to make sure that person is not being treated differently because he/she is LBGT. 

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Recorded: April 11, 2013