Abstract

The aging of older lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgender people (LGBT) may have some particularities and challenges. They can suffer from the ageism of society, and from the consequences of loneliness, for example.¹

Besides that, some researches of the aging field have already suggested that “heterosexual aging” study models and data would be insufficient to understand the complexities and particularities of old-age experiences of people who express non-hegemonic forms of sexuality.¹

Few studies have addressed this issue, especially in the Brazilian medical literature. In addition, the geriatrician and gerontologist may encounter challenging situations in their practices when assisting an older LGBT person with dementia or even at their end of life.²

The aim of this article was not only to uncover the loneliness and invisibility of LGBT older people. But also, to reveal the experiences of the Brazilian Non-Governmental Organization “Eternamente SOU” and how such activities can help to promote active and successful aging.

Keywords

older lesbians, gays, old-age experiences, loneliness, successful aging, protective factors, internalized homophobia, palliative care, depression, anxiety, dementia, cardiovascular disease, chronic diseases, aged people, health promotion guidelines