AARP Speaks to Gays Over 50
Bette Davis used to say, “Getting older ain’t for sissies.” AARP took that to heart by launching a new website exclusively for LGBT seniors. And while aging is sometimes a touchy subject in the community, the senior advocacy group has done a great job of focusing on topics of significance.
In one recent post on the new portal, Dan Savage discusses how seniors can impact the “It Gets Better” Project. “I’m getting close to the big five-oh myself,” Savage tells AARP. “Some of the most moving videos are from LGBT elders, from folks who came out at a time when gay people could still be arrested or committed [to a mental institution] for being open about who they were.”
This is just one of the features of the new website that offers resources, human interest stories and links that allow folks 50 and older to navigate everything from dating, children and pets to grief and loss. The site also features articles on news, personal finance and travel, as well as a community forum.
“We are proud to provide diverse, expert voices on topics that are important to all Americans 50-plus, including members of the LGBT community,” says Hugh Delehanty, senior vice president and editor in chief of AARP’s media properties. “AARP understands that while all Americans 50-plus share the same goals of aging with dignity and peace of mind, each of the communities in our lives offers its own challenges, opportunities and contributions towards helping us get there.”
Some of the more in-depth pieces addresses serious issues specific to the LGBT community, like three decades of AIDS, a look back on Stonewall on its milestone 40th anniversary, what to do when a child comes out and links to mainstream media coverage of hot topics like DADT and marriage equality.
“We couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate national Pride month than to launch this portal,” says Delehanty, “which we hope will help members of the LGBT community and their loved ones get access to important information and relevant insights from experts and each other.”
And since AARP is famous for talking frankly about (Gasp!) getting older with some of our favorite celebrities, we can’t help but wonder if there will be a few endorsements from out folks like Ian McKellen, Elton John, Ellen DeGeneres and Jane Lynch. Yep, they’re all over 50.
