Visibility Matters
Heart Health and Hormones: A New Year’s Guide for Transgender and Non-Binary Elders
Aging with Pride
By Sarah Bahnson, LGBTQI+ Initiatives Specialist As we enter a new year, heart health becomes an essential focus for many. For transgender and non-binary elders, managing heart health requires unique considerations, particularly when it comes to hormone therapy. Understanding the relationship between hormones and cardiovascular health is vital for ensuring the well-being of transgender and non- binary individuals as they age. The Impact of Hormones on Heart Health Hormone therapy is a critical part of many transgender and non-binary people’s lives, enabling individuals to align their physical appearance with their gender identity. For transgender women, hormone therapy typically involves estrogen, and for transgender men testosterone is often prescribed. While hormone therapy offers significant mental and emotional benefits, it also brings specific cardiovascular risks.
Estrogen therapy in transgender women can increase the risk of blood clots and affect cholesterol levels, potentially raising the risk of heart disease. Testosterone therapy in transgender men can lead to increases in red blood cell counts and have detrimental effects on cholesterol levels. Managing Cardiovascular Health with Hormone Therapy The key to maintaining heart health while undergoing hormone therapy is regular medical monitoring and a proactive approach to cardiovascular care. Here are a few essential steps: 1. Collaborate with Knowledgeable Healthcare Providers Ensure that your healthcare provider is well-versed in transgender health and understands the cardiovascular risks of hormone therapy in older adults. Regular check-ups and open communication are essential. 2. Routine Cardiovascular Screenings Regular screenings, such as
Book Club ; 3rd Wednesday; 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.; via Zoom Monthly Potluck ; Last Saturday; 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Tech Time ; 2nd Monday; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Pickleball ; 1st Saturday and 3rd Thursday; 7:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Dolphin Swim Club ; 2nd Tuesday, Bimonthly; 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Drawing Circle ; weekly on Wednesday; 12:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. A Heart-Healthy Future Transgender and non-binary elders deserve safe, affirming healthcare. Prioritizing heart health in combination with hormone therapy ensures that LGBTQI+ older adults can thrive. With the right support, 2025 can be a heart-healthy year for everyone. cholesterol tests and blood pressure checks, can detect early signs of heart disease and allow for timely intervention. 3. Adopt Heart-Healthy Habits Engage in physical activity, maintain a balanced diet, avoid smoking, and manage stress to lower cardiovascular risks. 4. Seek Support If you need help finding affirming healthcare providers contact Pima Council on Aging (PCOA), we are here to assist. Contact PCOA’s Helpline at (520) 790-7262 for resources tailored to your needs.
On-going events: Advance registration required to attend: soazseniorpride.org LBTQI+ Women’s Grief Group ; weekly on Monday; 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.; in-person GBTQI+ Men’s Loss Support Group ; weekly on Tuesday; 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Southern Arizona Senior Pride celebrating, supporting and uniting LGBTQI+ older adults (520) 312-8923; info@soazseniorpride.org There are many events each month, so check out our website: soazseniorpride.org Gayme Day ; 2nd Tuesday; 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Meditation Circle ; 2nd & 4th Sundays; 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Gathering in the Park ; 3rd Saturday; 9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Tuesday Walking Group ; weekly on Tuesday; 8:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
Page 30 | January/February 2025, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
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