Living With Pride in Later Life: Minority Stress, Stigma, and Well-Being Among LGBTIQ+ Older Adults in Spain

This study examines psychosocial well-being among LGBTIQ+ older adults in Spain, a population underrepresented in gerontological research. Guided by minority stress and social support frameworks, we surveyed 117 adults aged 50-78 in a community-based cross-sectional study conducted in Madrid and collected socioeconomic and relational indicators (income, housing, living arrangements, relationship status). Standardized measures assessed depression, perceived stress, life satisfaction, social support, loneliness, discrimination, and internalized stigma. Latent Profile Analysis identified four psychological distress profiles (low, moderate, high, high depression-low stress) and two stigma profiles (high, low). Participants reported moderate life satisfaction and social support but elevated depressive symptoms, stress, and loneliness. Higher distress and stigma were linked to poorer well-being, greater loneliness, and increased mental health service use. Women and transgender participants were overrepresented in the high stigma profile, reflecting intersecting gendered and structural inequalities. Findings support inclusive, identity-affirming gerontological services and strengthening support resources in later life, including care settings.