Aging with HIV in Sub-Saharan Africa: Health and Psychosocial Perspectives

HIV became a treatable condition with the development of effective antiretroviral therapies (ART) in the mid-1990s, allowing people with HIV to attain normal or near-normal life expectancies. The aging of the HIV epidemic is a global trend, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, including sub-Saharan Africa. Aging with HIV in Sub-Saharan Africa: Current Research and Perspectives provides a unique and timely overview of health and psychosocial topics concerning older adults with HIV in this region, covering epidemiology, health and functioning, social support, and policy and program implications.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 223 pages
Publication date: 17 June 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

With the advent of highly effective antiretroviral therapies (ART) in the mid-1990s, HIV transformed from a life-threatening disease into a treatable condition, allowing individuals who adhere to HIV medications to achieve normal or near-normal life expectancies. The success of ART has led to a significant shift in the demographics of people living with HIV, with individuals aged 50 and older now comprising the majority of HIV cases in high-income countries and other regions where ART is accessible. This aging trend of the HIV epidemic is also observed in low- and middle-income countries, including countries in sub-Saharan Africa, where the largest population of older people with HIV resides. While globally, over half of older adults with HIV reside in sub-Saharan Africa, there is limited information available about the specific circumstances, needs, and resiliencies of this population, impeding our ability to develop effective policy and programmatic responses to aging with HIV in this region. At present, our understanding of HIV and aging is primarily derived from information from the United States and Western Europe, where the epidemiology of HIV and the infrastructure for social care differ significantly from those in sub-Saharan Africa. Aging with HIV in Sub-Saharan Africa aims to bridge this knowledge gap by presenting current research and perspectives on a diverse range of health and psychosocial issues affecting older adults with HIV across this region. This comprehensive volume offers a unique and timely overview of the challenges and opportunities associated with growing older with HIV in a sub-Saharan African context, covering topics such as epidemiology, health and functioning, social support, and policy and program implications to support those aging with HIV.

The publication of this book is particularly noteworthy as there are very few published volumes that specifically address HIV and aging, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. It fills a critical gap in our understanding of the unique experiences and challenges faced by older adults with HIV in this region. By compiling the insights and expertise of researchers, policymakers, and healthcare professionals from across sub-Saharan Africa, the book provides a valuable resource for those working in the field of HIV and aging.

The book begins by providing an overview of the HIV epidemic in sub-Saharan Africa, highlighting the prevalence, risk factors, and impact of the disease on older adults. It then delves into the specific health and psychosocial challenges that older adults with HIV face, including chronic conditions, cognitive decline, depression, and social isolation. The authors explore the impact of these challenges on the quality of life, functional abilities, and overall well-being of older adults with HIV.

In addition to examining the health and psychosocial aspects of aging with HIV, the book also discusses the policy and program implications for supporting older adults with HIV. It explores the challenges and opportunities associated with implementing HIV prevention, care, and support programs for older adults, including the need for tailored approaches, the integration of healthcare services with social care, and the development of community-based interventions.

The authors of Aging with HIV in Sub-Saharan Africa draw on a wealth of research and experiences from across the region to provide a comprehensive and evidence-based analysis of the issues at hand. The book is well-organized, with each chapter providing a clear and concise summary of the relevant topics. It is also accompanied by numerous illustrations, tables, and figures that enhance the reader's understanding of the data and concepts presented.

One of the key strengths of Aging with HIV in Sub-Saharan Africa is its commitment to promoting equity and social justice in the response to HIV and aging. The authors recognize that older adults with HIV face unique barriers to accessing healthcare, social support, and other resources, and they advocate for policies and programs that address these disparities. They also emphasize the importance of involving older adults with HIV in the design and implementation of HIV and aging programs to ensure that their voices and experiences are heard and valued.

Another notable aspect of the book is its focus on the role of community-based organizations and networks in supporting older adults with HIV. The authors highlight the importance of community-based organizations in providing holistic care, including medical treatment, psychosocial support, and social protection. They also discuss the challenges and opportunities associated with building and sustaining community-based organizations, including the need for funding, training, and collaboration with healthcare providers.

In conclusion, Aging with HIV in Sub-Saharan Africa is a groundbreaking and essential contribution to the field of HIV and aging. By presenting current research and perspectives on a range of health and psychosocial topics concerning older adults with HIV, the book provides a valuable resource for researchers, policymakers, healthcare professionals, and community-based organizations. It fills a critical gap in our understanding of the unique experiences and challenges faced by older adults with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa and advocates for policies and programs that promote equity, social justice, and the well-being of this vulnerable population.

Weight: 367g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030963705
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022