Health Experiences of Women Over 50 Living with HIV
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Health Experiences of Women Over 50 Living with HIV: ageing, comorbidities and self-management of health
IRAS ID
246471
Contact name
Jennifer Farren
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
City, University of London
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 11 months, 11 days
Research summary
Background
Scientific progress and research of HIV has come a long way, and although there is not yet a cure or vaccine, with treatment it is no longer the life limiting diagnosis that it once was. The impact of HIV in older age is now an important area of research as an estimated 40% of people with HIV are over 50. There is evidence to show that people with HIV are ageing and experiencing poorer health at a younger age when compared to those without HIV. There is a further lack of research looking at women with HIV. Women in general are also more likely to develop frailty at an earlier age and living with HIV may also increase frailty risk. Considering these points, this study will focus on women, ageing/frailty, comorbidities and self-management.
Aim
This qualitative research study will explore the lived experiences of women with HIV over the age of 50 examining comorbidities, ageing/frailty and self-management of health. The ultimate aim will be to explore better ways to support these women in the self-management of their health and prevent and delay adverse outcomes.
Method
Up to 15 women living with HIV over 50 years of age will be recruited through NHS clinics and charities. Semi-structured interviews will be done using mostly open-ended questions lasting 30-60 minutes to be done at their home or over the phone.
Dissemination
The findings of this research will initially be written as a MSc dissertation and will then be shared with other healthcare providers when it is published in an open access journal. This will help health professionals to better support patient self-management and be more proactive in preventing and delaying frailty while ensuring this cohort enjoys better health and quality of life for longer.
REC name
London - City & East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
18/LO/1157
Date of REC Opinion
6 Sep 2018
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion