Today, homosexuals are widely accepted as members of society. Despite this, the fact remains that many of them live out their remaining years alone. To help these adults comfortably live in old age, there are many retirement communities specifically designed for adult homosexuals. The country is home to a lot of assisted living and retirement communities intended for gay and lesbian Americans. The first retirement community for gays and lesbians opened in Palmetto, Florida in 1997. Located between Sarasota and Petersburg, the community was called Palms of Manasota. It offered various amenities such as villas, assisted living homes, pools, clubhouses, and other recreation centers. The community continues to thrive today, encouraging the establishment of similar communities in other states around the country. Despite the societal acceptance gained by the third sex community, many of them experience mistreatment even in old age. As a result, some states in the US introduced several laws to protect them, as well as provide funding for exclusive assisted living centers. The personnel are provided with training and education so they can responsibly attend to the special needs of these people. Although these adults can reside in ordinary retirement communities, many of them choose to live in assisted living communities that are designed for their interests, like a community for assisted living Pittsburgh is home to. These communities tend to provide the adults with a stronger sense of acceptance and belonging, especially since these communities help them enjoy having a network of friends who share the same interests. The goal of these Pennsylvania retirement communities is centered on social acceptance for adults whose lifestyles are considered different.  They are provided with an environment where they can be themselves while still getting the assistance they need in daily tasks such as eating, bathing, and doing the laundry. Many gays and lesbians desire independence, both from family members and from the society. They love to create a network of friends with whom they can share the same interests and social opportunities. As the number of homosexuals approaching retirement continues to increase, Pennsylvania retirement communities can expect a growing demand for their services as well.