Meeting Sojourner at the Intersection: Women of Color Living and Aging with HIV

Background/Objectives: Women of color remain at risk of new HIV diagnoses. This study applied an intersectional framework to explore the lived experiences of women of color aged 50 and older who are living and aging with HIV. Methods: The researcher conducted a secondary analysis of data from a study involving respondents aged 50 years or older living with HIV. The mean age of the female participants (N = 12) was 57.42 (SD = 5.18, range = 47-65). Ecological Systems Theory was used to operationalize intersectionality, considering participants' multiple identities and social locations. Results: Participants described histories of role enactment and struggles as they faced structural, community, and interpersonal violence, anticipatory loss, and shame. Their narratives highlighted how layered oppressions shaped their experiences across the life course. Conclusions: Findings underscore the importance of using intersectional theoretical frameworks to examine the intersecting systems of oppression affecting older women of color living with HIV. The study recommends trauma-informed assessments and interventions, as well as culturally informed clinician training rooted in evidence-based practices.