Aging Well: The LGBTQIA+ Aging Experience - with Billy Rogers

In this episode of Aging Well, host Gretchen Knowlton talks with Billy Rogers, the President of Golden Rainbows of Illinois South and a longtime advocate for the LQBTQ+ community. Drawing on more than 40 years of experience, Billy shares powerful insights into the realities LGBTQ+ older adults face today, from isolation and healthcare distrust to the ongoing need for safe, welcoming spaces. Listeners will learn why many LGBTQ+ older adults may “go back into the closet” when seeking care, how barriers like transportation and lack of family support impact aging, and why building trust in services is critical. Billy also highlights the importance of intergenerational relationships, emphasizing how younger and older communities can learn from and support one another. This conversation offers practical examples of creating inclusive environments with curiosity and simple signals, to larger systemic challenges in housing, healthcare, and food access. Whether you’re an older adult, caregiver, professional, or ally, this episode provides meaningful ways to foster connection, dignity, and belonging as we age.  Resources: Golden Rainbows of Illinois South Illinois LGBTQ Aging Commission Report Disrupting Disparities Report SAGE (Services & Advocacy for LGBTQ+ Elders) Area Agencies on Aging services & Eldercare Locator Adult Protective Services (APS) SNAP food assistance LIHEAP (Energy Assistance Program) Farmers Market Nutrition Programs Rainbow Cafe LGBTQ supportFacebook: facebook.com/AgeGuideTwitter: twitter.com/AgeGuide Instagram: instagram.com/theageguidepodcastPodcast: ageguide.org/the-age-guide-podcastWebsite: ageguide.org