Living beyond prejudice: Examining the relationship between discrimination and sports and physical activity participation in older Italian sexual minority adults.

Introduction: In recent years, a growing body of research has specifically focused on the experiences of older LGB+ adults within sport-related contexts, revealing that they often encounter discrimination and victimization. These experiences, associated with minority stress, frequently lead to older LGB+ individuals withdrawing from sports and physical activities, affecting their physical and mental health. Methods: This study was part of the national research project "Ageing Well in an Ageing Society," funded by Next Generation EU [DM 1557 11.10.2022], PNRR, Investment PE8 – Project Age-It. We explored the experiences of discrimination and minority stress in a group of 21 older Italian sexual minority women (mean age = 71.5; SD = 7.6) and sexual minority men (mean age = 66.6, SD = 5.5) across their lives within sports and physical activity contexts. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: Consistent with the Minority Stress Theory, results showed four main themes: 1) Distal stressors, which included sub-themes such as unsafe public spaces, isolation, and blatant discrimination; 2) Proximal stressors, which encompassed sub-themes like concerns about, internalized heterosexist stigma, hiding one's sexual orientation and anticipation of rejection; 3) Individual and community coping, including sub-themes like positive LGB+ identities, sports preferences, and reaching safe spaces. Discussion: This study supports recent literature emphasizing the need to create more inclusive and supportive sports and physical activity environments for older LGB+ individuals, reducing discrimination and fostering participation to promote accessibility and aging well.