Date of Award

5-2026

Document Type

Project

Degree Name

Master of Social Work

Department

School of Social Work

First Reader/Committee Chair

Dr. Armando Barragan

Abstract

LGBTQ+ Baby Boomers have experienced decades of discrimination, societal suppression, and exclusion from equitable healthcare. Despite advancement in recent years, healthcare disparities persist, and past experiences of discrimination may contribute to present-day barriers in accessing quality care. Existing research often neglects the intersectionality of aging, sexual orientation, and identity, leaving a gap in understanding the long-term effects of historical trauma on healthcare access for this population.

This quantitative study seeks to answer the question: How does the historical trauma experienced by the LGBTQ+ Baby Boomer population impact the healthcare barriers they face? This study proposes to examine the relationship of historical trauma (independent variable) experienced by LGBTQ+ Baby Boomers, with the barriers they encounter in accessing healthcare (dependent variable). Using a modified survey from the 2012 Twin Cities LGBT Aging Needs Assessment Survey (Croghan et al., 2012), the research will collect structured data on participants’ healthcare experiences, perceived discrimination, historical trauma, and access to medical services. By focusing on statistical trends and correlations, this study will expand the limited body of knowledge and provide data-driven insights to inform healthcare providers and social workers.

These findings will contribute to social work practice by highlighting unmet healthcare needs and informing culturally competent interventions. By addressing systemic inequities and promoting social justice, social workers and healthcare professionals can play a pivotal role in ensuring inclusive, affirming, and comprehensive care for LGBTQ+ Baby Boomers. The implications of this research extend beyond this generation, setting precedent for equitable healthcare practices for future aging LGBTQ+ populations.

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