| September 18th is National HIV/AIDS and Aging Awareness Day. Over half of people in the U.S. diagnosed with HIV are aged 50 or over, and other data show that over 40% of new diagnoses among older adults are of Black patients. The National HIV/AIDS and Aging Awareness Day brings attention to the health and social needs of the growing number of older adults, especially older adults of color, who are able to live long and full lives. Individuals of all ages living with HIV face particular challenges, but older adults may face additional or unique issues. For example, older adults are less likely to be tested for HIV, but many have conditions, like heart disease or cancer, that can complicate HIV treatment. Older adults also experience greater isolation, stigma, and hesitancy to disclose HIV status. This can lead to unmet health and social needs. HIV.gov identifies health care, mental health services, housing, and nutrition as important needs of older adults living with HIV. Aging services advocates and legal assistance providers can help connect older adults to these critically needed supportive services. The resources below provide information on raising awareness, providing education, and supporting access to services: HIV.gov: Amplifying Communication: National HIV/AIDS and Aging Awareness Day Resources SAGE: Your Rights & Resources, HIV/AIDS Administration for Community Living: HIV/AIDS- Resources for Designing Programs NCLER Trainings: Health and Long-Term Services and Supports NCLER: What it Takes to Age in Place: Bringing Housing & Home & Community-Based Services (HCBS) Together NCLER: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Wednesday, September 15th: National HIV/AIDS and Aging Awareness Day Event: Remembering the Past, Reflecting on the Present, Envisioning the Future |