Integrating Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment Into HIV Care Systems in Indonesia: A Synthesis of Recent Evidence

Abstract

Combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) has improved the health and life expectancy of people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Comorbidities and geriatric syndrome are more prevalent in patients with HIV than in the general population. As a result, people living with HIV may face unique characteristics and needs related to aging. Health-care systems need to prepare to encounter those issues that not only focus on virology suppression and cART management but also chronic non-AIDS comorbidities and geriatric syndrome. However, there are limited data on geriatric assessment among people living with HIV. The purpose of this article is to present findings of a literature search that integrate age-related issues in HIV care management for health-care professionals caring for people living with HIV in Indonesia to consider. Integrating comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) into HIV care is essential. However, some critical issues need to be considered prior to implementing CGA in HIV primary care, including social vulnerability, economic inequality, and aging-related stigma. Developing guidelines for implementing CGA in HIV primary clinics remains a priority. Studies of HIV in the aging population in Indonesia need to be conducted to understand the burden of geriatric syndrome.