Afternoon at the museum: psychological wellbeing and social connectedness among LGBT older adults.

Abstract

Social isolation poses a major public health crisis for older adults in the U.S. as it negatively impacts physical and mental health. Intersectional communities, like LGBT older individuals, are particularly impacted. This study assesses the efficacy of an art museum-based intervention on social isolation and wellbeing of LGBT older adults when paired with medical school volunteers in San Francisco. Fifteen participants completed pre- and post-intervention surveys with established questionnaires and open-ended questions, reporting improvements in social connectedness and wellbeing. This pilot program underscores the value of sociocultural activities in enhancing the quality of life among this vulnerable population.