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Updated: Jun 30, 2025

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
Human Immunodeficiency Virus in Older Adults
Matthew L Russell1, Amy Justice2
1Harvard University, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit Street, Yawkey 2C, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
As people with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) age, they face more chronic conditions and geriatric issues. Healthcare providers must increase awareness for timely HIV testing and chronic condition screening in older adults.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- The aging population with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is growing.
- Older adults experience increased incidence and earlier onset of chronic conditions and geriatric syndromes.
- Older individuals with HIV are at higher risk for delayed diagnosis and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the importance of provider awareness regarding HIV in older adults.
- To emphasize the need for earlier screening of chronic conditions in this demographic.
- To advocate for contextualized evaluation of geriatric syndromes in aging HIV patients.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on aging with HIV and geriatric syndromes.
- Analysis of current clinical guidelines and best practices.
- Synthesis of evidence on diagnostic and treatment challenges.
Main Results:
- Increased prevalence of chronic diseases (e.g., cardiovascular, renal, metabolic) in older adults with HIV.
- Higher rates of geriatric syndromes including polypharmacy, frailty, falls, and cognitive impairment.
- Significant delays in HIV diagnosis and treatment initiation among older populations.
Conclusions:
- Provider education is crucial for addressing the unique needs of aging individuals with HIV.
- Integrated care models are necessary for managing co-existing chronic conditions and geriatric syndromes.
- Proactive screening and timely intervention can improve health outcomes for older adults living with HIV.
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