History and Accomplishments
of the Commission
Since its inception, the Massachusetts Commission on LGBTQ Aging has made significant strides in promoting the well-being and inclusivity of LGBTQ+ older adults.
The Massachusetts state legislature created the Massachusetts Special Legislative Commission on LGBT Aging. This Commission is the nation’s first statewide LGBT Aging Commission, working alongside the state legislature to meet the needs of LGBT older adults.
The Massachusetts Special Legislative Commission on LGBT Aging published its Report to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
The Commission became permanent as the Massachusetts Commission on LGBT Aging.
Sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) questions added to the Executive Office of Aging & Independence (AGE) needs assessment forms.
Massachusetts enacted “An Act Relative to LGBT Awareness Training for Aging Service Providers” first in the nation legislation requiring LGBTQ+ cultural competency training for all providers within Massachusetts’ state network of older adult care.
The LGBTQI Long-Term Care Bill of Rights included in the Massachusetts 2024 Long Term Care legislation “An Act to Improve Quality and Oversight of Long-Term Care”.
The Massachusetts Commission on LGBT Aging updated its name to the Massachusetts Commission on LGBTQ Aging to be inclusive of individuals who identify as “Queer” or “Questioning.”
The Massachusetts Commission on LGBTQ Aging published its 2025-2030 Strategic Plan.
These policy advancements have not only improved the legal standing of Massachusetts’ LGBTQ older adults but have also set a precedent for other states to follow.
Furthermore, the Commission has, and remains committed to, regularly bringing LGBTQ older adults across the Commonwealth together to hear directly about their priorities, challenges, and needs, and finding ways for the Commission to play a positive role in enacting needed change.
