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The Age Guide: Perspectives on the Aging Journey
Welcome to the Age Guide podcast highlighting perspectives on the aging journey. We are here to be your personal Age Guide and enhance your quality of life on the road ahead. This podcast is about putting a face on aging and giving a voice to older adults and caregivers by highlighting their experiences and stories. We want to provide a window into the struggles and joys of aging, to dispel myths and combat ageism. This podcast is hosted by AgeGuide Northeastern Illinois, an Area Agency on Aging in Northeastern Illinois. At AgeGuide, it is our mission to be a vital resource and advocate for people as we age by providing thoughtful guidance, supportive services, and meaningful connections.
The Age Guide: Perspectives on the Aging Journey
Aging Well: The LGBTQIA+ Aging Experience - with Billy Rogers
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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
SAGE (Services & Advocacy for LGBTQ+ Elders)
Area Agencies on Aging services & Eldercare Locator
Adult Protective Services (APS)
LIHEAP (Energy Assistance Program)
Farmers Market Nutrition Programs
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Podcast: ageguide.org/the-age-guide-podcast
Website: ageguide.org