Ageing with HIV: challenges and coping mechanisms of older adults 50 years and above living with HIV in Uganda

Introduction Globally, adults 50 years and older are an increasing proportion of persons living with HIV (PLHIV), accounting for 16% of the patient group globally.

The long-term effects of antiretroviral use are still being discovered and have been associated with several comorbidities; Stigma presents challenges for those in need of services and health care and can significantly affect mental health and treatment adherence.

Understanding the experiences and challenges of older PLHIV will inform the development of interventions to improve their care, health, and quality of life, which may help prevent the further spread of HIV.

We explored the experiences and challenges of older PLHIV aged 50 years and above.

Methods We conducted 40 in-depth interviews with elderly PLHIV aged 50 years and above who had lived with HIV for more than ten years.

We also explored the experiences and challenges of ageing with HIV in two hospitals.

We analysed the data thematically.

Results The key themes that emerged included; late diagnosis of HIV, depression and fear at the time of diagnosis, acceptance of close family, stigma from community, polypharmacy, development of comorbidities, financial burden, resilience, and mastery of own care.

Conclusion Older adults experience several challenges, and there is a need to develop special clinics providing appropriate care for the ageing and their social life.

Prevention, Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment of HIV, and appropriate geriatric care are essential for the well-being of elderly PLHIV.