LGBTQ+ senior activists in Spain pioneer new models of aging

Spanish LGBTQ+ seniors are organizing a new vision of old age that relies on chosen families rather than children and grandchildren. Josep Maria Mesquida, president of the Fundació Enllaç in Catalonia, explained that many older members have no traditional family support and instead build networks of friends, activist groups and associations.

The organisation will host workshops and talks on senior sexuality during the upcoming Pride celebrations, covering topics such as desire, Viagra, prostate health and the right to a sexually active retirement. Activists like 69‑year‑old Genís and 81‑year‑old Dídac, who trains at a gym and volunteers daily, illustrate the active lifestyle the group promotes.

Economic precarity also affects the community; many LGBTQ+ seniors lack sufficient pensions and cannot access mainstream residences. In response, the foundation is piloting a specialised geriatric facility, the Residencia Josete Massa, aimed at providing safe housing for LGBT older adults.