Sept 18 – National HIV/AIDS and Aging Awareness Day

“Together we can age without HIV”

September 18th is National HIV/AIDS and Aging Awareness Day

The aging population of HIV-infected individuals on antiretroviral therapy (ART) is an emerging model for studying premature aging. People living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) may have several co-morbidities (illnesses) that can complicate the aging process and increase vulnerability to aging. This leads to a decline in body function and potential, which is clinically described as frailty. We have seen both physiological and cognitive declines in PLWHA, and we offer clinical services and HIV research for our patients to live longer, healthier lives.

The Clint Spencer Clinic is proud to provide medical services for PLWHA, including older adults. We are an HIV clinic in Hawaiʻi with services that include Oʻahu, Maui, and the Big Island. We collaborate with other organizations to provide a wide range of services.

The Hawaii Center for AIDS also participates in clinical studies evaluating aging in people with HIV/AIDS. We are currently running studies concerning frailty, Alzheimer’s, and other cognitive conditions.