SHIP Findings AIDS in Seniors

Did you know...

• Adults over 50 account for over 10% of all AIDS cases nationally
• Adults over 50 account for 13% of all AIDS cases in Florida
  • 50% are black
  • 34% are White
  • 16% are Hispanic
• Women over 60 are one of the fastest growing risk groups
• Heterosexual transmission of HIV is increasing in the Senior Community
• Four Body Fluids that transmit HIV:
  • Blood
  • Semen
  • Vaginal fluids
  • Breast milk
• Early symptoms of HIV/AIDS mimic the aging process
• Any blood test does NOT detect HIV
• There is no cure for AIDS

What should you do?

1. Seek counseling if you have any reason to be concerned
2. Get tested if you have engaged in high-risk behaviors, including unprotected sex
3. Always use condoms if you do not know your partners HIV status
4. Never reuse or share needles
5. Donate your own blood for future use whenever possible
6. Talk to your doctor about HIV and AIDS
7. Speak to SHIP staff about Support Discussion Groups
8. Read and learn about HIV and AIDS
9. Talk to a family member, friend, or colleague about HIV and AIDS
10. Volunteer to help in the fight against HIV and AIDS

Spread the Message

Peer Education - recruits and trains older adults to deliver educational workshops to their peers and community groups.

Other Programs - provides peer counseling, professional training, and networking among organizations serving older adults with HIV/AIDS, websites, video library, and an informational database.

Volunteer your time

Schedule an informative presentation at your place of worship, condominium, organization, or workplace.

Provide peer education counseling