It is estimated that there are currently around 3 million LGBTQ older adults in the U.S, and that number is expected to grow to around 7 million by 2030 (SAGECare). Cornerstone at Canton is committed to meeting the needs of a large and growing LGBTQ senior population and recently went through a comprehensive training program focused on just that.
The Assisted Living and Compass Memory Support Community recently announced that they reached the Platinum accreditation level from SAGECare, an organization that provides LGBTQ Cultural Competency training and consulting to service providers. The accreditation process involved an in-person training geared toward Cornerstone’s team of managers, along with a training module for their frontline associates. Associates learned ways to navigate a variety of unique issues pertaining to LGBTQ older adults and gained a deeper understanding and appreciation of this population’s experiences.
Reaching the Platinum level means that at least 80% of Cornerstone’s associates went through the training, the first senior community in Canton to reach this. This achievement marks a milestone in Cornerstone’s ongoing efforts to build a network of support for LGBTQ residents, families and staff. With this goal in mind, staff will continue to educate themselves on the unique issues connected to the aging LGBTQ population.
Rebecca Scalzo, Cornerstone at Canton’s Executive Director, is proud of what the community has accomplished. “This training plays an important role in carrying out our primary value: Resident Quality of Life. Understanding the unique challenges LGBTQ elders face is key to fully providing the support and acceptance they deserve. With the education we’ve received, we’re prepared to create an even stronger and more inclusive community.”
To learn more about SAGECare, visit their website.