HIV and Older Adults (Research, Video 1:42)

Something negative and shocking may happen in our society this year. It is predicted that older adults will represent 50%of persons living with HIV in the United States. This population particularly should pay attention to these statistics. Rising rates of HIV among older adults require diligent use of condoms, no sharing of needles, testing for HIV, and discussions about HIV/AIDS with their doctors and others. AIDS.gov serves as a gateway for information about federal government efforts with a focus on domestic programs.

But so much more can and should be done to get the message out about safe sex for older adults. Ageism attitudes and stereotypes in society also impact HIV prevention by perpetuating myths about low sexuality among this population, low clinical HIV suspicion among healthcare providers, lack of knowledge about risk among older women, and different ways that older adults negotiate sexual practices. Older women are at a disadvantage when it comes to HIV prevention, education, and treatment.

This video shows how the city of Baltimore health officials and private health care providers are spreading the word about HIV/STD testing and prevention.

Frances Shani Parker, Author

Becoming Dead Right: A Hospice Volunteer in Urban Nursing Homes is available in paperback and e-book editions in America and other countries at online and offline booksellers.
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