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Abstract
This exploratory study surveyed 71 self-identified gay men, lesbians, and bisexuals age 50-80 to identify their social service needs. Results showed (a) participants used social and support groups within the gay/lesbian community, but used general community health services, (b) gay/lesbian community services were significantly rated as more adequate in meeting needs in times of emotional crises than non-gay/lesbian services, (c) both women and men indicated that they would be interested in participating in social groups segregated by gender within the lesbian/gay community, and (d) women were significantly more interested in bereavement groups than men. The results suggest that social/support services for the older lesbian/gay population may be best provided in a lesbian/gay environment.
