Changing attitudes about LGBTQ+ older adults: the Gen Silent Survey Project.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and more (LGBTQ+) older adults may experience challenges accessing services due to stigma. Aging service providers seeking to create an inclusive culture need training tools. This study examined if a film (Gen Silent) could increase provider's knowledge of and empathy for LGBTQ+ older adults. METHODS: A pretest - posttest survey was administered at film screenings in New Hampshire to assess knowledge and attitudes of participants (N = 108). Data were analyzed descriptively, Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare matched samples, and linear and logistic regression models compared group differences. RESULTS: Scores on eight of the nine measures improved after watching Gen Silent. Most participants (83%) indicated their thoughts and views had changed after watching the film. Statistically significant between group differences are discussed. CONCLUSIONS: The documentary Gen Silent was found to be an adequate, introductory training tool about LGBTQ+ aging.