Aging with HIV: clinical considerations for an emerging population

Abstract

Since the advent of highly active antiretroviral therapy, HIV infection has become a chronic, albeit life-threatening, condition that can be managed; therefore, more and more people are growing older with HIV. Although little research has been conducted on how HIV infection and the aging process interact to affect patient care and well-being, the bodies of literature pertaining to gerontology and HIV and AIDS offer some guidance. It can be helpful for the nurse to have a brief overview of some common concerns--in particular, the potential for drug interactions or toxicities, cognitive declines, and emotional problems--that nurses and other health care professionals are likely to face when providing care to older adults with HIV.

Figure 1

The Interaction of Aging, HIV, and Medications on Increased Comorbidities.