Older Adults

Here at the San Mateo County Pride Center, we acknowledge and celebrate the incredible knowledge, wisdom, and expertise that older LGBTQ+ individuals have to offer. Over the years, the older members in our community have paved the way for the progress and freedoms we enjoy today. From Stonewall to the AIDS epidemic, you have truly exemplified the bravery, resilience, and determination of the LGBTQ+ community. We wish to thank you for your tremendous contributions to our movement, and for laying the groundwork that allows the youth of today to live their true, authentic lives.

We also recognize the stigma, internalized oppression, and lack of safety that older LGBTQ+ adults experience. Older adults within the LGBTQ+ community are more at risk for isolation, neglect, and discrimination. A recent national survey of LGBTQ+ older adults in long-term care facilities found that only 22% felt they could be open about their sexual orientations and/or gender identities with facility staff. Additionally, in another recent national health study on LGBTQ+ older adults, respondents listed senior housing, transportation, legal services, social events, and support groups as being the most needed services for LGBTQ+ older adults. Assisted living, referral services, in-home health services, meals delivered to the home, short-term help for caregivers, and fitness and exercise programs were also programs and services that are needed for LGBTQ+ older adults.

We have learned that the stigma and discrimination many older adults have faced continue into their later years as well. Older LGBTQ+ adults have been forced back “into the closet” out of fear of discrimination, mistreatment, and more. Consequently, many LGBTQ+ older adults avoid or delay seeking care until their health deteriorates and crisis hits.

CONTACT
For more information on and of these programs, services, and/or workshops, please contact our
Older Adult Program Coordinator,
Ellyn Bloomfield, at
ellyn.bloomfield@sanmateopride.org
(650) 403-4300 ext. 4383

Celebrating, Supporting, and Uniting the LGBTQ+ Older Adult Community

The San Mateo County Pride Center is committed to training social services providers on key issues such as how to create welcoming environments for LGBTQ+ older adults throughout the county. Additionally, the Pride Center provides an array of programs and services for LGBTQ+ community members over the age of 50 through our Older Adult program. Our program aims to understand the unique needs of the LGBTQ+ older adult community in the Peninsula. Every month LGBTQ+ older adults participate in educational programs, find new community resources, share a meal, or make new friends.

Programs and Services for Older Adults

Coffee Break: an opportunity to socialize with other community members at cafes and coffeehouses throughout the County
Sunshine Series: community resources are shared and discussed; topics include senior employment, housing, animal companionship, referrals, and much more
Bistro Brio: a monthly lunch program for $3.00 per meal. We provide lunch and foster conversation for adults 50+ every third Monday of the month. Lunch takes place at the Center, just RSVP in advance by calling ahead of time (650-403-4300 ext. 4383). It’s more than just lunch – it’s a chance to get to know fellow older adult LGBTQ+ community members, find out about other community programs, and participate in a lively discussion
All That Jazz: a hodgepodge of activities like community arts, movie matinees, poetry readings, etc.
Monthly support groups (please check our calendar for dates and times):
- “Women’s Circle” for lesbians 50+
- “Gay Daddies” for gay men 50+

Senior Housing Workshops

Once a quarter we also offer the Senior Housing Workshop to help older adults identify and apply for various senior housing communities in the Bay Area. We’ll explain and define Section 8, tax credit, below market rate, and other common housing terms, and help you figure out the best housing options for you. We’ll assist with housing applications, waiting lists, and more.

Senior Peer Counseling Program

Through our partner, Peninsula Family Service, we provide companionship and friendship to isolated LGBTQ+ older adults who are homebound or living in a long term care setting. Through this program, an LGBTQ+ older adult is paired with a Senior Peer Counselor who provides one-on-one friendship and support through weekly visits.

As a volunteer Senior Peer Counselor, you receive FREE training and professional support, while you offer confidential emotional support, and understanding for one hour a week to older adults facing challenges such as loneliness, depression, grief, isolation from family & friends, loss, and life changes. Support is offered in Cantonese, English, Mandarin, Spanish, Tagalog, and to the LGBTQ community.

For details, please contact below Coordinators or call 650.403.4300 Ext. 4389

Tessie Madrinan, Filipino Services- 650.403.4300 ext. 4363
Helen Tsui, Chinese Services- 650.403.4300 ext. 4392
Rosa Carrera, Spanish Services- 650.403.4300 ext. 4321
Ellyn Bloomfield, LGBTQ Services- 650 403-4300 ext. 4383
Michele Epstein, Services in English- 650.403.4300 ext. 4371
Administrative Assistant- 650.403.4300 ext. 4389
Ann Blick Hamer, LCSW, Program Manager…..…650-403-4300 ext. 4322

If you are interested in becoming a Senior Peer Counselor, we will be offering a training this Spring via Zoom: 3/30/21—4/28/21 from 9:30am -12:30pm (TUES. & WEDS.)

More information provided on the flyers below.

For more information on and of these programs, services, and/or workshops, please contact our Older Adult Program Coordinator, Ellyn Bloomfield, at ellyn.bloomfield@sanmateopride.org or (650) 403-4300 ext. 4383.