Aging and Later-Life Issues Facing Black Sexual Minority Men
摘要
Although aging research is increasing, the experiences of older Black sexual minority men (SMM) remain significantly underrepresented in the literature, especially those who are not living with HIV. Most of the empirical data on aging Black SMM are also derived from studies conducted in the United States, leaving a lack of literature addressing aging trajectories in global contexts. This absence is striking given that African diasporic regions share intersecting histories of colonialism, racial stratification, and heteronormative governance that influence aging trajectories, healthcare access, social belonging, and health. Generally, Black SMM must manage their health in systems that are historically hostile or indifferent to both Black and LGBTQ+ communities, leading to delayed care, poorer outcomes, and self-managing complex conditions. This chapter explores the aging experiences and needs of Black SMM over age 50, foregrounding the intersecting influences of race, sexuality, history, and time. Drawing on available empirical studies, the chapter discusses key aging issues for older adults including mental health, spirituality, social connection, and digital engagement as crucial dimensions of health and quality of life. The chapter also emphasizes their resilience and discusses creative redefinitions of self and relationships. Global considerations regarding policy environments and structural factors affecting aging outcomes for Black SMM across diverse contexts are also considered. The chapter contributes to a more holistic understanding of aging for Black SMM and calls for expanded research that affirms their complexity and dignity as they navigate aging in communities and systems that were not built with them in mind.