The Healthy Living Project: Psychosocial Needs of Older Persons Living with HIV

• In Event: 2234 - Social Dimensions of AIDS

Abstract

In Los Angeles County (LAC), the population of older people living with HIV (OPLWH) is rising. While medical challenges facing OPLWH have been documented, psychosocial issues are largely unexplored. APLA Health & Wellness conducted the Healthy Living Project, which explored the lived experiences and quality of life of OPLWH in LAC. We held focus group discussions with four sub-populations of OPLWH: English and Spanish-speaking gay and bisexual men, heterosexual men, transgender women, and cisgender women. There were universal sentiments of diminished mental health, loneliness, and age-based and HIV stigma from communities and service providers. Many reported concerns about financial security, housing, and social interactions. Each sub-population of interest faced specific struggles stemming from the intersection of gender, gender identity and sexual orientation. Our discussion emphasizes the development of programs and services that are population-specific and tailored to the total diversity of OPLWH.

Authors

• Matt G. Mutchler, California State University, Dominguez Hills

• Jeff Bailey, APLA Health

• Keshav Tyagi, APLA Health

• Sabrina Cherry, University of North Carolina

• Bennett Reagan, APLA Health

• Vanessa Jacuinde, APLA Health

• Juliana Soto, City of Los Angeles, Department of Disabilities