Socioculturally Appropriate Internet-Based Geriatric Care Model for Older Adults Living With HIV: Experience-Based...

Area of Science:

• Geriatric Medicine
• HIV/AIDS Care
• Digital Health

Background:

• Older adults living with HIV experience significant barriers in accessing specialized geriatric care.
• Virtual care models present a potential solution but require careful consideration of their limitations for this population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To co-design a culturally appropriate virtual care model specifically for older adults living with HIV.
• To ensure the model addresses the unique needs and preferences of this demographic.

Main Methods:

• Employed a qualitative, experience-based co-design approach with 19 older adults living with HIV.
• Utilized interviews, questionnaires, focus groups, a workshop, and a world café format across three phases.
• Analyzed data through thematic content analysis to identify key themes and requirements.

Main Results:

• Developed a virtual care model prototype addressing needs for personalized communication, simplified technology, and culturally responsive care.
• Highlighted participant priorities including privacy, flexible scheduling, and integrated support for HIV and aging conditions.
• The co-designed model aims to enhance inclusivity, accessibility, and patient-centeredness in virtual geriatric care.

Conclusions:

• Successfully co-designed a virtual geriatric care model with direct input from older adults living with HIV.
• The model represents a promising, patient-centered approach to overcoming service gaps for this vulnerable group.
• Further research is recommended to evaluate the efficacy and implementation of this novel care model.