HIV and Aging: Double Stigma

Abstract

HIV and ageism continue to be key public health challenges in the USA and globally. Older people living with HIV may experience intersectional stigma resulting from HIV and ageism. The current review summarizes the scientific literature and focuses on social isolation and lack of social support as key factors in experiencing HIV-related and aging-related stigma. Social isolation and social support are key social determinants of health, which may have a bidirectional relationship with HIV-related stigma and ageism. Stigmatization may also result in health care providers not paying enough attention to the mental health and sexual health needs of older adults. Current research suggests that the intersection of HIV-related stigma and ageism is a complex issue. Future research should focus on the design and feasibility of implementing stigma reduction interventions addressing HIV-related stigma and ageism.