AIDSImpact.com:: - Santa Fe, USA 2011

Abstract #360 - The impact of HIV/AIDS on older adults in Eastern Africa: challenges and responsibilities
Authors: Presenting Author: Dr Hermengild Mayunga - ORES Tanzania
Additional Authors: Ms Karen Joseph ,
Aim: To discuss and share means to support Older adults in the AIDS impacts are experiencing. This is due that in eastern Africa and other sub Sahara Countries HIV/AIDS has traditionally been viewed as a young person's and middle age disease. New findings show that older adult have been as well infected and affected by HIV/AIDS. And bare responsibilities in relation to HIV/AIDS in their families and communities. As part of affected community they suffer the impacts: Being infected themselves, economic, social/ psychological and health care needs for AIDS patients, Care of the Orphans (Grandchildren), the social stigma and discrimination associated with HIV/AIDS, lack of community support and care and extremely poverty caused by scourge in the developing countries.
Method / Issue: The study includes approximately 360 older adults (age 50+) affected and infected by HIV/AIDS. Participants recruited through a local AIDS Service organization from 8 Regions of East Africa. 90 families from rural districts and 90 families from Urban districts. 56% Female and 44% Male. Case management staff contacted potential subjects and provided them with information about the study. Data was gathered using face-to-face interviews with those interested in participating. Data collected included, reviewed/Compared and composed.
Results / Comments: Older Adults are a ''high risk group'' in East Africa and other many Sub Sahara countries as they are infected and affected by the epidemic. They often bear the major socio-psychological and economic impact of HIV/AIDS on their families and households. They take on multiple roles and responsibilities in management of HIV/AIDS.
Discussion: The issue to be discussed to see the Support which shall be given to the Older Adults and involvement of older Adults in HIV/AIDS intervention programmes by maximizing the human resource potential of older persons in their communities is vital for combating the AIDS epidemic. Sharing experience from other Continents and Countries to see what Good practice shall be scaled up in East Africa.
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