Community-based support for older LGBTQIA+ adults: The case of Eternamente Sou in São Paulo, Brazil

The experiences of older lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) adults are still neglected in public policies, organizations and services, which results in limited tailored support for this population. This case study aims to contribute to affirmative care within community gerontology by examining the structure, everyday practices, and perceived impact of Eternamente Sou (E.Sou), a community-based organization supporting older LGBTQIA+ adults in São Paulo (Brazil). E.Sou is dedicated to supporting this population through affirmative practices and community building. Using participant observation, document analysis, and a 120-min collective conversation circle, we conducted a case study. Through reflexive thematic analysis, three theme were identified: (1) E.Sou: "Made it happen" (Path from inception to consolidation); (2) Practices of care and advocacy (meeting the needs of older LGBTQIA+ adults); (3) Participation and effects on older LGBTQIA+ adults (Engagement, empowerment, and influence on wellbeing). Findings showed that E.Sou addresses urgent needs of older LGBTQIA+ adults while providing a space to affirm identities, foster community, and collectively reshape experiences of aging. This case study contributes to expanding international dialogue on LGBTQIA+ aging and offering transferable lessons for affirmative policy and practice aligned with the Leave No One Behind principle of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.