"It's not just HIV anymore": A qualitative exploration of health, research, community and mental health priorities of long-term survivors of HIV in the United States
View abstract on PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.Long-term survivors (LTS) with HIV need integrated care addressing aging, comorbidities, and mental health. Person-centered models incorporating geriatric expertise and social support are crucial for improving their quality of life.
Area Of Science
- Gerontology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background
- Long-term survivors (LTS) of HIV, diagnosed before 1996 or living with HIV >10 years, face aging-related comorbidities and lifelong therapy effects.
- LTS are underrepresented in research, hindering the development of person-centered care strategies.
- Understanding the unique health and social needs of aging LTS is critical for improving their long-term outcomes.
Purpose Of The Study
- To examine health, aging, antiretroviral therapy, community, mental health, and research engagement priorities among LTS in the U.S.
- To explore how social determinants of health influence outcomes and access to care for aging LTS.
- To inform the development of person-centered strategies for LTS.
Main Methods
- Qualitative interviews conducted with 32 LTS aged 60+ across the U.S. between 2023-2024.
- Participants were recruited through community partners and purposively sampled by gender, race, and region.
- Thematic analysis was used to identify key priorities and social determinants.
Main Results
- Integrated care addressing HIV and age-related comorbidities (cardiovascular disease, cognitive change) is a priority.
- Mental health needs, including survivor guilt, depression, and anxiety, are significant.
- Safer long-term antiretroviral therapy options and research involvement are desired.
- Social determinants like housing, food security, and financial stability significantly impact outcomes.
Conclusions
- Person-centered models integrating geriatric expertise, mental health services, and social supports are essential for LTS.
- Addressing mental health and social determinants is crucial for enhancing quality of life and resilience.
- Future research and clinical practice should prioritize the holistic needs of aging LTS.
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