Older adults are an often overlooked demographic when discussing Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 53% of people living with an HIV diagnosis were 50 years old or older.
While many were diagnosed at a younger age, advancements in HIV treatment options have resulted in an increase in the number of people living longer with HIV. It is expected that 70% of people living with HIV will be over the age of 50 by the year 2030.
HIV is often perceived as a condition that impacts younger individuals, but as the statistics show, it impacts a large percentage of older adults. Older adults living with HIV face many challenges such as managing complications that come with aging in addition to HIV itself.
Stigma and a lack of awareness often contribute to delayed diagnoses and treatment in this age group which can worsen health outcomes. This article will provide an overview of HIV in older
Importance of Addressing HIV in the Elderly
Addressing HIV in the aging population is important because older adults are often overlooked when it comes to HIV prevention, detection, and treatment efforts.
Older adults face unique challenges when it comes to living with HIV. HIV and its treatment can affect the body in different ways. Living with HIV can make you more likely to develop conditions such as heart disease, dementia, diabetes, osteoporosis, and mental health issues. Additionally, taking medications for multiple health conditions such as those mentioned, can make you more susceptible to experiencing side effects and drug interactions.
Another challenge faced is late diagnosis. Late diagnosis is common in older adults, as symptoms may be mistaken for normal aging, leading to advanced disease and poorer outcomes. 34% of people aged 55 and older received a late-stage HIV diagnosis. Education and regular testing can help prevent this, and early detection is key to ensuring effective management.
The CDC recommends HIV testing at least once for anyone between the ages of 13 and 64 years old but may be completed more frequently for those at high risk. Older adults are less likely to get tested for HIV because they are often perceived as being low risk, may feel shame or embarrassment surrounding requesting to be tested, or may not recognize signs and symptoms of HIV.
Beyond the medical concerns, there are also social and emotional factors to consider. You may experience isolation and mental health challenges while also dealing with stigma associated with aging and living with HIV itself.
Because healthcare providers may neglect the specific needs of older people living with HIV, self-advocacy is important. Addressing concerns and challenges upfront can reduce health disparities while supporting overall health and well-being.
Are Older Adults at a Higher Risk of Contracting HIV?
Not necessarily. You are not at a higher risk of contracting HIV due to age alone, but there are some factors that may contribute to how vulnerable you may be.
You may have less information about HIV prevention and related topics such as safe sex practices. You may also be less likely to be routinely tested for HIV as health care providers may not proactively discuss HIV-related topics such as sexual health or prevention methods.
Older adults may also have weakened immune systems which can contribute to increased vulnerability.
Looking Forward with Hope
Everyone, regardless of age, deserves to have access to preventative and proactive care.
By addressing the challenges faced as an older adult living with HIV, you honor your journey and commitment to living a healthy, empowered life.
Shedding light on these challenges will encourage you to prioritize your health and needs, increase your knowledge, and take advantage of available resources. If you are living with HIV, no matter your current stage of life, clinical trial participation may be an option for you. Whether or not you decide to participate in a clinical trial, you can still thrive with the support you need by living empowered and making informed decisions. Click here to learn more about Gilead’s HIV research efforts for those living with HIV.
References:
NIH National Institute on Aging. HIV, AIDS, and Older Adults.
WING E. J. (2017). The Aging Population with HIV Infection. Transactions of the American Clinical and Climatological Association, 128, 131–144.
