Mental health of LGBT seniors and psychological management through sports practice.

Abstract

Aging is a natural process that can develop healthily,
through the maintenance of functional capacity and mental health, or in a marked way,
through senility, characterized by loss of autonomy. Among the protective factors
that contribute to active aging, physical activity stands out,
especially for vulnerable populations such as the LGBT+ community, frequently
exposed to minority stress resulting from discrimination, prejudice, and social exclusion. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between LGBT+ elderly and the practice of physical activity, identifying benefits, barriers, and possibilities for intervention. This is a narrative review conducted using searches in the databases
SciELO, BVS, CAPES, and PubMed, with the descriptors in Portuguese and English “LGBT elderly 'physical activity'” and “LGBT elderly 'physical activity'”. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 16 articles published since 2020 were analyzed. The results show that physical activity contributes to the reduction of depressive symptoms, increased self-esteem, strengthened resilience, and improved quality of life for LGBT+ older adults. However, significant barriers persist, such as homophobia, ageism, lack of inclusive spaces, negative past experiences, and economic difficulties. It was also observed that different subgroups of the community present specific vulnerabilities and motivations: lesbian and bisexual women, for example, face higher rates of obesity and health problems, while gay men frequently experience sports practice mediated by aesthetic issues and ageism. Community strategies, such as collective dance interventions, proved effective in promoting belonging and social support. It is concluded that physical activity is a powerful resource in promoting the physical and mental health of LGBT+ older adults, provided it is accompanied by inclusive policies, professional support, and collective strategies that consider the internal diversity of the community.