Successful Aging - Archived Article

Successful Aging - Archived Article
Aging and AIDS

There are many stereotypes our society holds about older people. One commonly held-- but incorrect--belief is that older people are not sexually active. Consequently, many people wrongly assume that AIDS is not an issue once you're over 50.

In fact, the risk of HIV infection does not disappear as we get older. The 50 plus population represents more than 10% of those in America who have AIDS, according to researchers from the National Institute for Aging. Studies show that as many as 9% of women 45 years and older engage in sexually risky behaviors, and 4% of older men report having high-risk sex. Seniors may be embarrassed about taking precautions. Or they may assume they are not vulnerable.

You may be at risk for HIV if any of the following is true:

If you are sexually active and don't use a male latex condom. You can get HIV/AIDS from having sex with someone who is infected with the HIV virus.
If you don't know your partner's sexual and drug history. Has your partner been tested for HIV? Does your partner inject drugs?
If you inject drugs and share needles or syringes with other people. Drug users are not the only people who might share needles. People with diabetes who inject insulin or draw blood to test for glucose level might share needles.

Older people often have difficulty in talking to their doctors about sex or drug use, but it is important to get tested early. The earlier you begin medical treatment, the better your chances of keeping the HIV virus in check and guarding against AIDS.

Do you want to know more about HIV and the 50+ population? Southern Tier AIDS Program will be presenting a one-day conference called AIDS? Not at My Age! on May 17, 2001 at the Holiday Inn-SUNY from 9-3:30. The keynote speaker will be Jane Fowler, a 65-year-old HIV-positive woman who has become an HIV/AIDS activist. She has given more than 300 speeches and educational programs to audiences of all ages. Jane's story has been told in the national media, including NBC's Nightly News; ABC's 20/20; Modern Maturity and People.

Other speakers at the conference will discuss identification and treatment of AIDS/HIV in older people, and Sexuality After 50. The cost for the day is $35, which includes breakfast, lunch and breaks. Many local organizations participated in planning AIDS? Not At My Age!, including Action for Older Persons, AIDSWORK of Tompkins County, the Alzheimer's Association of the Southern Tier, the Broome County Office for Aging and the Johnson City Senior Citizens' Center.

Following the conference, Jane Fowler will be appearing at an early evening reception, which is free and open to the public. It will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Johnson City Senior Center.

For more information, call 607.798.1706.