Conversations About HIV and Aging
DAP Health is proud to highlight our community members living - and thriving - with HIV.
September 18 is National HIV/AIDS and Aging Awareness Day — a day to call attention to the growing number of people living long and full lives with HIV and to aging-related challenges of HIV prevention, testing, treatment, and care.
Representing a variety of local organizations, Conversations about HIV & Aging shares the perspectives and wisdom of four local individuals who are thriving because of the support they receive.
I am sure most people with HIV wish they were never exposed and it wasn't an issue they needed to deal with. But since this is your new reality, celebrate the fact that this is the best time in history to have such a diagnosis. We can live long and healthy lives, have loving and intimate connections with others, and pursue our greatest and wildest dreams, all while living and sharing our truth. The world is a better place because of you!
After living years in fear and shame, I finally understood that I was not damaged and being loved was nothing I needed to beg for. Intimacy was always a fear based-rational process and not a human experience. Always worried to impact somebody’s life by passing an illness that will change their existence forever. Now I enjoy a healthier-intimate life experience where I am not afraid to explore but still, in a responsible way.
People with HIV are living longer lives, thanks to advancements in scientific research and medical treatments; today, about half of HIV positive individuals in the U.S. are age 50 and above.
Individuals living with HIV are invited to attend Aging Positively — Reunion Project, the annual Coachella Valley conference aimed at providing practical information and inspiration for those aging with HIV, will bring together community leaders to improve the lives of older adults living with HIV for a virtual conference. The conference will feature an HIV research panel of top experts discussing HIV and aging issues in our community.
When I tested positive in 1993, I figured I had months to live. Now, 28 years later, I feel that whatever time remains is a gift, and so I try to live each day as positive as possible.
Community is knowing no matter how different our experiences, we are connected in fundamental ways and that is what matters. I find my "folks" everywhere. Surprisingly, a lot of them I find online.
The virtual conference is free to attendees and open to the public. Presented by Eisenhower Health, this year's event is the result of a unique collaboration among local service providers and organizations focused on improving the shared experience of older adults living with HIV.