"Those who work with seniors say they're seeing growth in the number of people in their 60s, 70s and 80s coming out of the closet as gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender," reports the Associated Press. Social scientists have long noted that people are coming out younger and younger. They say there's a similar trend at the other end of the age spectrum. Growing awareness and acceptance of varied sexualities and gender identities in the U.S. helps explain the shift. Experts say coming out late in life comes with a unique set of hurdles. That includes fear of being shunned by children and grandchildren and a sense of loss over having fewer years to live life outside the closet. "As seniors we face common problems of aging, illness and the loss of friends, partners, and relatives. As GLBT people, we sometimes face estrangement from our neighbors and families," writes SeniorGays.org. "It would be good to unite to form a community of support for each other in Sacramento as well as online. In other cities such organizations have flourished and have provided companionship, fellowship, and mutual nurturing to GLBT seniors."