In May, all three of CMSS’ residential communities received designation as LGBT+ Long-Term Care Equality High Performers. This recognition is given by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation and SAGE’s Long-Term Care Equality Index (LEI). The LEI is the only national benchmarking tool focused on LGBT+ inclusion in residential long-term care and senior housing communities. This year, 274 senior housing communities across 33 states participated in the LEI. CMSS is proud to be among the senior service providers offering inclusive and accommodating care to all older adults, including LGBT+ older adults.
A recent study by AARP reports that 78 percent of LGBT+ adults 45-plus are concerned about having enough support as they age. With a greater likelihood to be single and without children, LGBT+ seniors can benefit from the support of aging service providers dedicated to inclusive care and communities.
“All 274 participating communities deserve our deepest gratitude for their leadership,” said Kelley Robinson, President of the Human Rights Campaign. “Their work sends a powerful message: LGBTQ+ people deserve to age with dignity, safety, and pride in communities that see and understand who they are. The best care is found in communities that embrace our full humanity and lived experiences, from residents to staff and visitors.”
The LEI measures the following policy and practice areas as benchmarks of LGBT+ inclusion in senior housing settings:
- Non-Discrimination and Staff Training: Legal protections for LGBT+ residents, visitors, and team members, along with training for team members to establish and build the foundation for inclusivity.
- Resident Services & Support: Policies and practices that demonstrate progress toward LGBT+ resident care and support.
- Employee Benefits & Policies: LGBT+ employees, like LGBT+ residents, receive equal treatment and access to health-related benefits and policies.
- Resident & Community Engagement: Community commits to best practices to publicly demonstrate its commitment to the LGBTQ+ community.
For more information on the LEI and to view the 2025 report, click here.
