How has living with HIV for over 20 years impacted your aging process?
Living with HIV for over 20 years has brought unexpected challenges and insights, especially as I age. Today, thanks to modern medications, many people with HIV can live long, healthy lives. However, as people with HIV grow older, they face unique issues like comorbidities, mental health challenges, social isolation, and medication interactions. Comorbidities such as cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and certain cancers are more common, partly due to the HIV virus, long-term ART use, and lifestyle factors. ART helps manage HIV but can have side effects and interact with other medications. Mental health is another concern, with issues like depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline being common. Survivor’s guilt, from losing friends to AIDS, adds to the emotional burden. Comprehensive care is crucial, involving regular check-ups, mental health support, and social services. Healthy aging is possible with a balanced diet, exercise, stress management, and good sleep. Communication with healthcare providers and adherence to treatment plans are key. The population of older adults living with HIV is growing, showing that aging with HIV, though challenging, is manageable. I face my future confidently, learning to coexist with HIV and other conditions. Join support groups to connect with others in similar situations and find strength together.