Promoting Healthy Aging Among LGBT Elders (2018 - Present)

Project Description

We are developing protocols to pilot the use of the Citizen Science Global Network’s Our Voice methods with LGBT elders in Alaska.  Project tasks include training and assisting LGBT older adult volunteers in Citizen Science methods.  We use the Our Voice electronic data collection tool to collect photo and narrative data relevant to healthy aging in Anchorage.  We participate in data interpretation meetings, reporting and disseminating activities with partnering agencies (AARP and SAGE (Services and Advocacy for LGBT Elders) Alaska).

Partners

  • University of Alaska Anchorage
  • AARP Alaska and SAGE Alaska

Participants

  • Adults 50+ that identify as LGBT

Research Question

  • Are Our Voice methods effective for identifying facilitators, barriers and solutions that promote social connectedness for LGBT elders in Anchorage?

Our Voice Impact

"This experience has changed my life.  I see inadequacies everywhere I go as it relates to pedestrian access and safety.  I even stop [at] construction sites to remind them to be considerate of the handicapped in our community.  Thank you all so much for this awareness and empowerment to require change."

~ Pam Jiner, GirlTrek Advocacy Leader, Denver CO