 | The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA |
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| The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA |
David W. Coon, PhD1, Joseph A. Catania, PhD2, and Greg M. Rebchook, PhD2. (1) Research Center, Institute on Aging, 3330 Geary Blvd., 2 East, San Francisco, CA, CA 94118, (415) 750-4180, dcoon@ioaging.org, (2) Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California San Francisco, 74 New Montgomery, Suite 600, San Francisco, CA 94143
Men who have sex with men (MSM) still constitute the overwhelming majority of HIV/AIDS cases in the over 50 population. However, older MSM’s sexuality and primary prevention needs are relatively unexplored. This presentation discusses formative research using focus groups and in-depth interviews distinguishing key themes useful in the development of HIV interventions for older MSM. Eighty-five MSM age 50 and older were identified through a recent probability based study of adult MSM residing in San Francisco, and through snowball sampling and advertisements. Recruitment resulted in a substantially diverse sample. The average age of participants was 57.9 years (63.5% were 50-59 years old and 36.5% over age 60). Thirty-three percent of the total sample self-identified as MSM of color (10.8% Latino/Hispanic, 12.9% African American, 4.7% Asian/Pacific Islander; 3.5% Native American and 1.2% as multiracial). Approximately a third of all participants were in a committed relationship. Fifty-five MSM participated in five separate focus groups and 30 in in-depth interviews. In-depth interviews were also conducted with senior service and AIDS service providers. Several key themes emerged from this research: pervasive ageism; social support losses including losses due to the AIDS epidemic that increase loneliness; limited social venues; an increased desire for intimacy; and, an interest in mentoring opportunities with younger cohorts. Additional focus groups are underway exploring the palatability of intergenerational prevention programs. Results also suggest the need for new HIV campaigns targeting older MSM that address the tremendous ageism and older MSM’s social and informational needs (e.g., housing, medical and financial needs).
Learning Objectives:
Keywords: Aging, HIV Interventions
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.