Exploring Correlates of Resource Insecurity Among Older Black or African Americans with HIV in Ohio

Resource insecurity is a social determinant of health that can impact people with HIV (PWH), in particular older African Americans (AA) or blacks with HIV. The purpose of this study was to identify resource insecurities among older Blacks or AA PWH specifically related to food and housing. Secondary focus was to find associations between resource insecurity and substance use history, stigma, and various forms of discrimination.

Eligible participants (N = 52) of this cross-sectional study were 50 years old or older, identified as Black or AA, diagnosed with HIV, and living in Ohio. Food insecurity was assessed using the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale and housing insecurity was defined as not having stable housing. Resource insecurity was categorized into food and housing secure, food or housing insecure, and food and housing insecure.

Almost half (48.1%) of participants reported housing insecurity, with approximately 58.0% experiencing food insecurity, and 38.5% facing both. Current substance use, particularly opiates, showed significant association with resource insecurity (OR = 5.54; 95% CI = 1.91-17.30). Moreover, experiences of everyday (OR = 1.19; 95% CI = 1.10-1.30) or major forms (OR = 1.75; 95% CI = 1.33-2.39) of discrimination, as well as HIV stigma (OR = 1.24; 95% CI = 1.01-1.55), were also linked to increased odds of resource insecurity among participants.

Findings highlight how social factors contribute to resource insecurity among older AA PWH. Understanding the factors offers insight for targeted intervention in the fight against HIV transmission.