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05:53
Measuring Frailty in HIV-infected Individuals. Identification of Frail Patients is the First Step to Amelioration and Reversal of Frailty
Published on: July 24, 2013
Symptom disclosure by older HIV-infected persons
1Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing, Hunter College, CUNY, New York, New York, USA.
The Journal of the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care : JANAC
|January 11, 2011
Summary
Older adults with HIV face unique health challenges and are less likely to disclose symptoms due to aging perceptions. Integrated care and open communication are crucial for managing their complex health needs.
Area of Science:
- Geriatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Antiretroviral therapy has increased life expectancy for people with HIV.
- Older adults with HIV experience higher rates of comorbidities like liver disease, diabetes, and dyslipidemia.
- Substance use and psychiatric disorders are also more prevalent in this population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the unique symptom disclosure challenges faced by older adults with HIV.
- To emphasize the need for integrated treatment plans tailored to this demographic.
- To promote improved patient-provider communication and self-management strategies.
Main Methods:
- This article is a review and synthesis of current knowledge.
- It focuses on the intersection of aging, HIV, and healthcare.
- Qualitative factors influencing symptom perception and disclosure are discussed.
Main Results:
- Older adults with HIV often underreport symptoms, attributing them to normal aging.
- Multimorbidities contribute significantly to symptom burden in this group.
- Factors such as culture, religion, age, and race influence symptom perception and disclosure.
Conclusions:
- An integrated treatment approach is essential for older adults with HIV.
- Creating an environment that fosters open patient-provider communication is vital.
- Enhanced self-care and self-management strategies are necessary for improving quality of life.
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