The Graying of HIV/AIDS: Preparedness and Needs of the Aging Network in a Changing Epidemic

Abstract

The number of older adults living in the US with a diagnosis of HIV/AIDS has steadily increased in the past decade. This study examined the extent to which 13 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) in Washington State are willing and prepared, and possess the required experience/skills, to serve older adults with a diagnosis of HIV/AIDS and to access the potential impact the further implementation of Aging and Diability Resource Centers (ADRCs) may have on service delivery to this population. Staff were surveyed at AAA's throughout the state. The majority of resondents (84%) agreed that serving HIV+ older adults was consistent with their mission, but few indicated that they had substantial experience with this population. Recommendations for personnel at AAAs and AIDS service organizations are provided.

KEYWORDS:

• Older adults
• HIV/AIDS
• aging network
• AIDS service organizations
• Area Agencies on Aging

This research was supported by a grant from the University of Washington, Center for AIDS Research # AI 27757.