Chosen Family and Aging: Planning Care in the LGBTQ+ Community

LGBTQ+ older adults are more likely to experience solo aging, familial estrangement, and hesitation around traditional senior services due to fear of discrimination or lack of inclusivity. For many, “family” is not defined by biology, but by the meaningful relationships built over time—friends, partners, and supportive communities who become chosen family.

As a result, planning for the future can look different—and deserves a more personalized, affirming approach. Creating an aging plan that reflects your identity, values, and support system is essential to maintaining independence, dignity, and peace of mind.

If identifying as an LGBTQ+ ager resonates with you, consider the following:

• Who will advocate for you if biological family is not involved?
• Do your care providers understand and respect your identity?
• Is your aging plan built around your life, relationships, and values?
• Is a sense of belonging, access to a team of experts, guidance, and ongoing oversight important to you as you age?

These questions are not just practical—they are deeply personal. Having trusted advocates and inclusive care partners in place can make all the difference in feeling supported and seen throughout the aging process.

Aging at home should feel safe. With Avenues, we embrace each individual’s story—honoring chosen family, respecting identity, and creating customized aging plans that reflect who you are, not just what you need. Our approach is rooted in compassion, expertise, and a commitment to inclusive care that empowers you to live confidently at home. Avenues achieves this in partnership with Brio Living Services’ mission: welcoming all, partnering together, enriching lives.

Avenues by Brio Living Services proudly celebrates our LGBTQ+ neighbors and would be honored to be part of your aging journey—helping you navigate the future with clarity, confidence, and care.