Comparative Perspectives on Living With HIV/AIDS in Late Life

The effects of HIV/AIDS on different societies spanning the globe are only beginning to be described. This article describes HIV/AIDS's emerging impact and consequences for families and societies around the globe, with a primary focus on middle-aged and older members. It first provides the current data on the evolving international profile of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Then, using primary sources and published data, it explores three contrasting nation/state settings (Uganda, Thailand, and India) to describe the cultural, social structural, and family consequences of HIV/AIDS. Findings include identification of emerging and potential strains on core cultural practices related to social integration at the community and family levels, as well as shifts in normative role relationships between multiple generations. Direct and indirect challenges to core moral and ethical issues beyond those simply related to infectious disease prevention and treatment are also identified. Finally, this article draws on these explorations to formulate several key priorities for future research and practice related to HIV/AIDS among older adults.