HEALTH: Aging LGBT People face increased risk of mental illness!

Wallie Hall was essentially alone in the world after his partner died about seven years ago. He and his partner hadn’t gone out much, so he didn’t have any acquaintances to spend time with in Chicago, he said. He also wasn’t in the best physical shape. He felt isolated,  according to Northwestern University.

“I was considerably overweight,” Hall said. “I had no friends.”

The 69-year-old Lakeview resident has since lost about 100 pounds and formed friendships that have improved his mood.

The problems Hall faced are a significant concern for aging LGBT adults. Getting older can be difficult, especially for people who are isolated. Aging members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community are especially at risk for mental health issues, due to the impact of societal stigma and a greater likelihood of living alone.

Older people in general face an increased risk of depression, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta. About 50 percent of seniors have two or more chronic health conditions, and an estimated 13.5 percent of those who require home health care suffer from major depression.

The CDC also reports that members of the LGBT community are more likely to experience depression and anxiety as a result of discrimination and homophobia.