Optimistically Engaging in the Present

This study explores the experiences of aging among gay men tofurther explain the phenomenon of gay male aging in contemporary terms, to put thoseexperiences into a historically relevant context, and to expand upon previous findingson aging within the gay male population. Nineteen self-identifying gay men from ametropolitan area in South Florida were interviewed. The data collected were analyzedusing grounded theory method. Findings from the study indicated that a great deal ofoptimism was revealed by the participants of the study in spite of their pastadversarial experiences related to their sexuality and current challenges related to gaymale sexuality and aging. Based on these findings, professionals working with an olderpopulation should consider the supportive environments that can most benefit thispopulation in the community and even consider partnering with lesbian, gay, bisexual,and transgender (LGBT) oriented organizations to better serve the needs of theirclients