The AIDS Institute would like to invite you to join us for the 5th annual National HIV/AIDS and Aging Awareness Day (NHAAAD), observed on September 18, 2012. National HIV/AIDS and Aging Awareness day focuses on the challenging issues facing the aging population with regards to HIV prevention, testing, care and treatment. In addition, there is an increased need for prevention, research, and data targeting the aging population, medical understanding of the aging process and its impact on HIV/AIDS.
The campaign targets:
- People living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHAs) who are aging with the disease or already over 50 at the time of their initial diagnosis,
- Increasing the use of protection from HIV infection, especially among the baby boomer population, and
- The increasing number of grandparents becoming the primary guardians for children who have lost their parent(s) to HIV/AIDS.
In an effort to continually expand awareness about HIV/AIDS among the aging population, organizations and community members are invited to develop, implement and participate in awareness activities and events on or around September 18th.
Past examples of activities and ways organizations and individuals can become involved:
- Host a free HIV screening event
- Encourage and promote HIV testing among older Americans
- Provide HIV prevention and education messages to older Americans
- Provide resources for linkage to treatment and care for HIV infected older Americans
- Organize health fairs that focus on HIV/AIDS and healthcare in older Americans
- Encourage older Americans to practice safer methods to prevent HIV/AIDS and other Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD’s)
- Conduct events at senior community centers or nursing home facilities
- Talk to an older adult in your family about getting tested
- Engage leaders in the faith community to participate in local, regional, or national events on or around NHAAAD
- Highlight how your programs can incorporate HIV/AIDS education for older Americans
In recognition of the 5th annual NHAAAD, The AIDS Institute is hosting an educational webinar, click here to read more:
HIV and Aging Webinar Blog Post 2012
