The intersecting cognitive and aging needs of HIV-positive older adults: Implications for social work practice

ABSTRACT

Cognitive impairment is a significant health concern for people aging with HIV/AIDS. Using a community-based participatory research (CBPR) framework, we surveyed (n = 108) and interviewed (n = 20) people living with HIV who were over age 50 about their cognitive concerns and recommendations for social work intervention development. Quantitative findings indicate that our sample was greatly engaged in their HIV care, yet participants had many cognitive concerns. Qualitative findings highlighted fear, shame, and uncertainty concerning HIV and aging alongside a need for increased social work support. This paper provides practical engagement strategies for social workers to support clients concerning HIV, aging, and cognition.

KEYWORDS:

• Health care
• HIV/AIDS
• older adult
• psychosocial intervention
• social support
• social work

Acknowledgements

The authors thank the Ontario HIV Treatment Network (OHTN) for supporting this project with a grant and all of the people who participated in this study.