The Course
Dive deep into a dialogue about the unique challenges and experiences that impact older adults who identify as LGBTQIA2+. From health disparities and social isolation to ageism within the community and the wider society, this course peels back the layers on aging with an intersectional lens. We’ll explore how history, policy, and community resources shape the lives of LGBTQIA2+ elders, and the importance of creating inclusive environments in healthcare, retirement, and support systems. It's not just about understanding the barriers—this is a conversation on celebrating resilience and fostering advocacy too.
Whether you're a healthcare professional, social worker, policy maker, or someone who simply wants to be better allied with the LGBTQIA2+ community, this course will equip you with the knowledge and empathy to make a meaningful difference. By examining case studies, current research, and best practice models, you are set to transform this understanding into action. Imagine contributing to a world where aging is an experience marked by dignity, respect, and affirmation, regardless of who you love or how you identify—that's the empowering journey ahead in this course!
What you will learn
You know, when I started putting this course together, I really wanted to shine a light on those unique challenges that often go unnoticed. It's so important that we address the distinctive needs of our community, especially as folks navigate the complexities of aging. Every piece of content, every activity, and discussion we've got lined up has been thoughtfully chosen with the idea of fostering understanding and providing practical support. It's not just a bunch of information thrown together; it's a carefully curated experience that'll give you tools and insights, making you a well-informed advocate and a stronger member of the community. Trust me, the journey we're about to embark on is well-structured, it's engaging, and by the end of it, you'll feel empowered knowing you are ready to support inclusivity at every stage of life.
Curriculum
Your instructor
Kristina Padilla brings a wealth of knowledge and lived experience to her role as an educator, specializing in the unique challenges faced by aging members of the LGBTQIA2+ community. With over a decade of advocacy and hands-on practice in various supportive capacities, her professional journey has been a testament to her unwavering commitment to inclusivity and social justice. Kristina's expertise extends from academic research on the intersection of age, sexual orientation, and gender identity to the facilitation of community workshops that foster safe, affirming spaces for her students.
At the heart of Kristina's teaching philosophy is her deep-seated passion for empowering older LGBTQIA2+ individuals, who often navigate a landscape of limited resources and representation. Her investment in the course content is not merely academic; it stems from her personal resolve to address and ameliorate the isolation and inequities that can accompany aging in her community. Through her engaging instruction and supportive mentorship, Kristina inspires her students to become knowledgeable, compassionate advocates for a demographic that she believes deserves visibility, respect, and comprehensive care.
Informed
Insights on Aging in the LGBTQIA2+ Spectrum
Empathetic
Understanding Unique Aging Challenges in LGBTQIA2+ Populations
Resilient
Navigating Later Life with Pride and Dignity