Alexandria Health Department (AHD) is encouraging Alexandria residents of all ages to recognize National HIV/AIDS and Aging Awareness Day (NHAAD).  

NHAAD is recognized nationally on September 18 and allows us to reflect on the unique experiences of older Americans who live with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). 

According to the National Institute of Health, over half of Americans who live with HIV are 50 years of age and older. Thousands of older Americans are diagnosed with HIV every year.  

As of 2021, according to the Virginia Department of Health, 42% of people living with HIV or AIDS in Alexandria were 55 years of age or older. That percentage has increased steadily in recent years, except for 2020, likely due to deaths caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. This indicates that people are living longer with HIV/AIDS.  

One reason that a growing number of older people can live longer with HIV/AIDS is the availability of improved treatments. Still, older people face several challenges related to HIV/AIDS. 

People aging with HIV/AIDS must manage chronic and seasonal illnesses that pose greater risks due to age and HIV status. They also face barriers to health care access due to systemic racism, poverty, and homophobia. 

Challenges also exist for older people trying to avoid HIV infection. Less testing among the older population, including among potential sexual partners, partially due to stigma, can lead to infections. 

This NHAAD, AHD encourages all residents to recognize the health achievements and challenges of people aging with HIV/AIDS. AHD also encourages all people to talk to a provider about HIV prevention and personal risks.  

The best way to stay healthy at any age is to know your HIV status. Call AHD’s Sexual and Reproductive Health Clinic at 703.746.4992 to find testing in Alexandria.  Local testing is available for people with and without insurance. Translation services are available.  

People with HIV should talk to their doctor about staying healthy as they age through a healthy lifestyle, treatment, and vaccinations to protect from other illnesses like mpox and COVID-19.  

For more information about HIV and aging, visit www.hiv.gov.  

For media requests only, contact eve.elliott@vdh.virginia.gov or call 804-467-5160.