Inclusive health and social resources for LGBTQ Older Iowans
LGBTQ older adults face unique challenges to healthcare and support. These resources can help you learn about local and national organizations that advocate for the equality of LGBTQ older adults.
One Iowa proudly provides a list of resources for LGBTQ Iowans and allies. Inclusion on our website does not warrant or imply any endorsement, recommendation, or outcome. You must fully vet each resource.
One Iowa is proud to be a part of SAGECollab, a network of diverse organizations that partner with SAGE to support LGBTQ+ older people in their communities. Together, we exchange ideas, explore public policy changes, and inspire each other to support better and empower older LGBTQ+ people everywhere.
Health & Wellness Resources
Retired and Senior Volunteer Program of Madison and Marion Counties
Connects older adults with volunteer opportunities in their community. In addition to connecting volunteers with other opportunities, we provide medical transportation, food support, and our Friendly Neighbor program. Volunteers may provide transportation to appointments, support groups, or the pharmacy. With food support, volunteers may provide transportation to food pantries or the grocery store as well as assist with cooking meals. Our Friendly Neighbor program volunteers may provide social visits to isolated community members or provide transportation to local events and activities.
To be a volunteer, to request assistance, or to learn more contact volunteer@ridehirta.com or 1.877.686.0029 and ask for Mildred.
Iowa Mobility Management
Mobility Coordinators focus on meeting your individual transportation needs by identifying transportation options and service providers while offering education on how to use public transportation.
They educate local communities and enhance awareness of available mobility options and play an important role in travel training.
LifeLong Links | 1-866-468-7887
A free state-wide service providing information and referrals for older adults, people with disabilities, veterans, and caregivers as they begin to think about and plan for long-term independent living. LifeLong Links is connected to Iowa’s network of Aging and Disability Resource Centers.
Alzheimer’s Association-Iowa
With a focus on diversity and inclusion, the Alzheimer Association provides all populations resources and support to address the Alzheimer’s crisis. Trained clinicians available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for any reason at 1-800-272-3900.
COVID Recovery Iowa
The State of Iowa has received federal funding from FEMA to offer free virtual counseling and assistance to those affected, in any way, by COVID-19. Iowa Department of Human Services has contracted with several providers throughout the state. These trained professionals are providing counseling, virtual activities, referrals and help finding resources to any Iowan seeking assistance or a listening ear. Iowans of all ages may join groups online to find support and learn creative strategies for coping with the effects of the pandemic. COVID Recovery Iowa will announce additional programs in the coming weeks to help Iowans build coping skills and resilience.
If you have additional questions contact:
Ash Roberts
Specialty Coordinator
aroberts@heartlandfamilyservice.org
State Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP)
Free, confidential service of the State of Iowa that helps older Iowans make informed decisions about Medicare and other health coverage.
Ron Maruca, open & affirming volunteer counselor
515-654-6632
UnityPoint Clinic LGBTQ – Des Moines
Staff has undergone training through the Safe Zone Project to provide a welcoming environment for LGBTQ patients.
1221 Pleasant St, Ste 200
Des Moines, IA 50309
1-515-241-7397
UnityPoint Clinic LGBTQ – Prairie Parkway – Cedar Falls, Waterloo
Designated a “LGBTQ Healthcare Equality Top Performer” by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation for policies and best practices aligned with LGBTQ patient-centered care.
5100 Prairie Pkwy Suite 300
Cedar Falls, Iowa 50613
319-222-2710
The University of Iowa LGBTQ Clinic
Provides full-service health care to meet the LGBTQ health care needs.
UI Hospitals & Clinics, Iowa River Landing
105 E. 9th Street
Coralville, IA 52241
319-467-2000
855-467-3700 (toll free)
Central Iowa VA
Offering medical care, mental health services, and support for LGBTQ veterans, including PreP, hormone replacement therapy, speech therapy, wigs, padded bras, gaffs, binders, packers, STP devices, and more.
Drew O’Leary BSN, RN LGBTQ Veteran Care Coordinator Pronouns: he/him/his
515-418-2440, call or text.
3600 30th St, Des Moines, IA 50310
Prime Timers Central Iowa
A social membership club offering older gay, bisexual and transgender men friendship, activities, support and personal growth.
Queer Elders of Iowa City
A social group for LGBTQ elders to come together, share stories and find community. We meet the first and third Wednesday of each month from 2:00-3:00 pm at the Iowa City Senior Center, Room 309. The second Wednesday of the month is a movie from 2-4 pm in Room 308.In addition to organizing social activities for members, the group supports the LBGTQ Iowa Archives and Library through collecting oral histories and gathering materials for the archive. For members who have the interest, there are also opportunities for sharing our experiences with the wider community.
For more information email QEIC.ICSC@gmail.com
National Resources
AARP Pride
Offers news, personal finance, relationships, travel and other topics of interest to older LGBTQ Americans, and their families and friends.
AARP Iowa
600 E Court Ave # C, Des Moines, IA 50309
515-244-2272
SAGE
SAGE provides services and advocacy for LGBTQ elders.
SAGECare USA
Provides training and consulting on LGBT aging issues to service providers.
SAGE Cents
SAGE Cents is a digital wellness platform made specifically for LGBT elders to increase financial stability and reduce the economic stress.
Prepare to Care Guide LGBT
For caregivers and those who may be receiving care in the LGBTQ community.
Family Caregiver Alliance
Addresses special concerns of LGBTQ caregivers, including an online LGBTQ community support group.
LGBT Elder Hotline | 1-888-234-SAGE
Confidential hotline providing information and local resources as well as an opportunity to talk with trained peer-support volunteers about issues including isolation, relationships, bullying, family concerns, HIV/AIDS, and much more.
The Care Plan
Affirming services for LGBTQ including guidance on planning for the future and providing care management.
Contact Jacqueline Boyd: jacqueline@the-care-plan.com; 630-479-0083
The National Resource Center on LGBT Aging
Works to improve the quality of services and supports offered to LGBTQ older adults. Offers insight and resources covering LGBTQ older adult needs.
My Caring Plan LGBTQ Resources
LGBT Senior Guide: Key Considerations and Resources
Guide to Finding the Perfect LGBT Senior Community
