AIDS and Aging Awareness Day

AIDS and Aging Awareness Day History

AIDS and Aging Awareness Day is observed to draw the public's attention to the unique challenges faced by the aging population living with HIV/AIDS. The day aims to educate, raise awareness, spur advocacy, and promote research into their specific health concerns.

The need for such a day became apparent over the past two decades. Over 50% of people living with HIV in the USA are now over 50 years old, largely due to significant advancements in antiretroviral therapy which has enabled people diagnosed with HIV/AIDS to live longer. This juxtaposition of advanced age with the disease has given rise to unique health challenges that often go unrecognized, ranging from a higher risk of certain cancers, cardiovascular disease, as well as the accelerated aging process and related complications.

This initiative recognizes the intersectionality of age and HIV, inviting healthcare providers, organizations, and the public to contribute towards creating better services, policies, and research to support aging individuals with HIV/AIDs. The US national observance of AIDS and Aging Awareness Day takes place annually on September 18th.

AIDS and Aging Awareness Day facts

• Individuals aged 50 and older made up 17% (6,812) of the 39,782 new HIV diagnoses in 2016 in the U.S.
• Older people of color are disproportionately affected by HIV and AIDS.
• By 2030, over 70 percent of the HIV positive population in the United States will be over 50.
• Aging and HIV often share similar symptoms, such as loss of appetite and lack of energy, which can lead to delays in diagnosis for older adults.
• People aged 50 and older have the same HIV risk behaviors as younger people, but may be less knowledgeable about HIV and therefore less likely to protect themselves.

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