Stigma and the Need for Social Support for the HIV-Positive Aging Population

Stigma and the Need for Social Support for the HIV-Positive Aging Population

The aging process itself lowers energy levels, restricts social encounters, and cause decreased physical and mental capabilities. This means that older HIV-positive people may suffer more emotional problems and physical stresses than do others.

Stigma can also make things difficult. There is the stigma of living with HIV disease and the stigma of ageism. This can make it difficult for older people to find support. First of all, they may be ashamed and hesitate to tell anyone that they have HIV. Second, they may not be comfortable in support groups and therefore not join them.

However, it is important for the aging population living with HIV to seek out support. A lack of support can lead to depression. A mental health counselor, health educator, or peer counselor can help. Some peer counselors may have had similar experiences and can share healthy ways to cope.

Taking Care of Yourself

There is a lot of research and attention focused on aging and HIV. With it may come advances in the care and treatment of older people with HIV. In the meantime, both middle-aged and older HIV-positive people need to make sure that their health care providers monitor not only their HIV illness, but also check regularly for signs of diseases associated with aging. This includes testing for cancer, heart problems, bone disorders and other health issues that are growing more common among HIV-positive people as they get older.

HIV-positive people can take further steps to prevent disease and improve their overall health as they age. These include quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, getting more exercise, and avoiding or reducing the use of alcohol and recreational drugs.