Chicago, Ill —In observance of National HIV, AIDS & Aging Day on Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2013, the HIV services team at Center on Halsted will provide free, rapid HIV testing, linkage to care and other support services for Seniors (ages 55+) and their loved ones. The event will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the 2nd floor lobby to coincide with regular senior services programming at Center on Halsted.
HIV/AIDS among people over 50 is increasingly prevalent because many HIV-positive people receiving appropriate care are living into middle and old age. New HIV infections among older adults are also on the rise. Older adults living with HIV/AIDS risk poorer health outcomes than their younger peers as a result of age-related issues like cardiovascular disease, accelerated HIV progression, and increased likelihood of late diagnosis.
Treatment advances have helped many older adults living with HIV/AIDs live longer and healthier lives. It is estimated by 2014, however, that 50% of people living with HIV/AIDs will be age 50 or older; yet, older adults are less likely than their younger counterparts to be routinely evaluated for HIV.
For more information about other HIV/AIDS & STD Services offered at Center on Halsted, please visit www.centeronhalsted.org/hiv or call 773.661.0910.