For many of us, growing older may mean that our bodies will begin to reveal vulnerabilities and normal age related health issues may become evident. Psychologically we also start the gradual adjustment to growing older by beginning to recognise and accept that perhaps we need to drive our body less hard than we once did. For people living with HIV the natural health challenges with growing older can present themselves ahead of time. The Health Department in WA currently reports that almost 40% of gay men with HIV are between 40-49 years of age, with a further 40% over the age of 50. These ages are not very old in the traditional sense, however when over laid with the impact of living with HIV, suddenly many people are confronted with health challenges that they might not have expected until much later in life. This is the first time we have had a significant number of PLHIV who are middle aged and over and services will need to learn to adapt what they do to be able to respond well.
We are fortunate that our community has organisations such as the GLBTI Retirement Association (GRAI) working towards improving the needs of our older population in Western Australia. The ageing sector has never before had to deal with so many out and proud individuals from diverse sexual backgrounds. Add into the mix HIV stigma, and the complexity of HIV clinical management, and we potentially have a recipe for under prepared and under resourced services.
A new resource produced by the National Association of People Living with HIV/AIDS (NAPWA) and the Australian Federation of AIDS Organisations (AFAO) focuses on providing a practical guide to growing older with HIV. There are chapters on the medical challenges of HIV, which covers topics such as cardiovascular health, mental health and living with diabetes and HIV. There is also information on managing social change, sex, friendship, and extended aged care at home. This is a ground breaking national resource and you can get a copy mid- late March at WAAC.
As long as we put in the effort ahead of time, I believe that together we can ensure that growing older, even with health challenges, can be an abundant time in our lives with loving friends and family supporting and caring for each other.
Cipri Martinez
