A dedicated screening program for geriatric HIV-infected patients integrating HIV and geriatric care

Clinicians caring for HIV-infected patients >60 years old encounter multiple clinical challenges. The use of a functional geriatrics screening for detection of significant comorbidities is important in this population.

The geriatrics screening evaluated functional capabilities, depression, cognitive dysfunction, nutrition, mobility, medicines used, and interactions.

As of July 2009, 57 patients were screened (average age 62.6, 39 males and 18 females). A total of 17 patients (9 males and 8 females) were referred to the geriatrics/HIV program because of identified problems in multiple domains: 10 with cognitive dysfunction, 8 with problems in basic or instrumental activities of daily living, 6 with nutritional issues, 5 with depression, 5 with mobility problems, 4 with visual issues, and 2 with hearing difficulties. The average age was 62.9. Median CD4 count and viral load were 285 (15-714) cells/mm(3) and 30 505 copies/mL (0-407 697), respectively.

The functional yearly screening of patients >60 years with HIV needs to be part of regular care of patients infected with HIV as multiple functional problems can be diagnosed and addressed.