Advances in HIV treatment have transformed HIV from a fatal diagnosis into a manageable chronic condition for many people. As a result, more people are living longer with HIV than ever before.

Today, approximately 54% of people living with HIV in the United States are age 50 or older, and in Georgia, approximately 44% of people living with HIV are age 50 and older. As this population continues to grow, so does the need for healthcare systems that address both HIV and age-related health concerns.

Older adults living with HIV often face unique challenges, including managing multiple medical conditions, navigating healthcare systems, maintaining medication adherence, and addressing social isolation. At the same time, many older adults remain sexually active and may still be at risk for HIV, making prevention and testing important at every age.

The Georgia AIDS Coalition advocates for policies and programs that support healthy aging, equitable healthcare access, and long-term support services for Georgians living with HIV.

HIV prevention remains important throughout life.

Many older adults underestimate their risk of HIV infection and may be less likely to discuss sexual health with healthcare providers. As a result, HIV diagnoses among older adults are often delayed, leading to worse health outcomes and more advanced disease at diagnosis.

Prevention strategies include:

• Routine HIV testing
• PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis)
• Condom use
• STI screening
• Harm reduction services
• Open conversations with healthcare providers

The Georgia AIDS Coalition supports efforts to increase awareness of HIV prevention among older adults and reduce stigma that can prevent individuals from seeking testing and care.

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) remains the foundation of HIV care at every age.

Modern HIV medications allow people living with HIV to achieve viral suppression, maintain healthy immune systems, and live long, productive lives. Many people successfully manage HIV with a single daily pill or long-acting injectable treatment.

As people age, HIV treatment plans may become more complex due to:

• Heart disease
• Diabetes
• Kidney disease
• Osteoporosis
• Cancer
• Medication interactions

Healthcare providers often work closely with patients to ensure HIV medications continue to be effective while addressing other health conditions that become more common with age.

People aging with HIV often require comprehensive, coordinated healthcare that extends beyond HIV treatment alone.

Research shows that older adults living with HIV may experience higher rates of cardiovascular disease, cognitive decline, osteoporosis, frailty, and other age-related conditions. Social isolation, transportation barriers, housing instability, and mental health concerns can also affect quality of life and health outcomes.

Care may include:

• HIV specialty care
• Primary care
• Behavioral health services
• Medication management
• Nutrition support
• Housing assistance
• Case management

The Georgia AIDS Coalition supports programs that help older adults remain connected to care, maintain independence, and access the services they need to age with dignity.

Federal and state programs play a critical role in supporting older adults living with HIV.

The Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program provides medical care, medications, case management, and support services for individuals who may not otherwise be able to afford care. Medicare and Medicaid also play increasingly important roles as people living with HIV age into retirement or become eligible due to disability.

Georgia’s HIV care network includes:

• Ryan White service providers
• HIV specialty clinics
• Community-based organizations
• Case management programs
• Transportation and support services
• Aging and wellness programs

The Georgia AIDS Coalition advocates for continued funding and expansion of these programs to ensure every Georgian living with HIV can access the care and support needed to thrive throughout their lifetime.