During our current time of technological advancement and globalization, many people have started to experience various degrees of shifts towards more openness about sexual and identity issues. This is especially true for members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, plus (LGBTQ+) community who are increasingly finding themselves able to express their identities freely through digital embodiment and connectivity. As the world moves closer towards virtual worlds and post-digital communities, these elders may find it difficult to navigate their identity within these new environments.
There are also potential stories that await them in this brave new world.
The older LGBTQ+ individuals' journey has been an interesting one, filled with ups and downs. Many have faced discrimination, violence, and stigma throughout their lives due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. The recent shift towards fluidity and digital embodiment has enabled them to express themselves more openly than ever before, which can be empowering but also challenging as they try to make sense of what it means to be accepted by society at large.
Some older adults may feel pressure from younger generations who have grown up in a more tolerant environment, leading them to question whether they belong in the LGBTQ+ community anymore. Others may struggle with the idea of changing their appearance or behaviors in order to fit into a more traditional mold. In addition, some may feel isolated because they do not have access to the same resources and support systems available online as those who live in larger cities or metropolitan areas.
In terms of how future elders will navigate their identity in virtual worlds and post-digital communities, we must consider the implications of our current technological landscape. We already see evidence of people creating alternative realities where anyone can become anything they want without physical limitations or restrictions. This could lead to a situation where everyone is free to explore different identities without fear of judgment or rejection. On the other hand, it could also create an environment where individuals are pressured to conform to certain standards set by others. As for potential stories that await these elders, there is no telling what new experiences they might have in this brave new world. They could find themselves connecting with others across oceans and continents, discovering hidden talents within themselves, or simply enjoying life in ways they never thought possible before.