Objectives. — The aims of this article were to explore the psychopathological, cognitive and psychological characteristics of older sexual minorities such as homosexuals, bisexuals and asexuals from the perspective of aging, stigmatization, protective factors and adaptive resources specific to sexual minorities.
Methods. — The literature review was carried out on the EBSCOHOST and CAIRN databases.
Results. — Older sexual minorities were found to have more depressive and anxiety symptoms and disorders and post-traumatic stress disorders than the sexual majority population. Differences in cognitive abilities were also observed. These disparities are explained by the effect of minority-related stress factors compounding those common to the general population. The older sexual minorities reported fewer symptoms than the younger sexual minorities. This asymmetry is explained by the expertise of older sexual minorities in coping with heterosexism. Throughout their lives, they develop effective coping strategies that enable them to confront ageism in old age. A positive perception of sexual identity plays a central role in the ability to cope. The social network, particularly the chosen family, is an important emotional support tool.
Conclusion. — Current research in psychopathology highlights the need to take account of the ageing process, minority specificities and individual resources when studying the mental healthof older sexual minorities. Future research should focus on investigating the specificities ofthe French population, the interactions between ageing and