Learning Objective #1: Identify problems specific to individuals over the age of 50 with HIV disease

Learning Objective #2: Assess how narrative analysis is useful for improving nursing practice for individuals over 50 with HIV disease

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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the incidence of HIV disease has been increasing twice as fast among people over the age of fifty (CDC, 2001). In the last ten years, there has been a tenfold increase in the number of persons 65 and older diagnosed with HIV disease (CDC, 2001). Several factors contribute to this increase among this population. For example, changes in demographic patterns and social norms are facilitating a more active sex life for older adults. Yet, stereotypes and assumptions about the lack of sexual activity is one factor that prevents a clear understanding of HIV disease in this age group. This provided the rationale for our study. The methodology used in our research project was narrative analysis where the object of investigation was the story itself, or first person accounts of the respondents (Riessman, 1993). We analyzed illness narratives from issues of the publication NAHOF Connection and from face-to-face interviews with individuals over the age of 50 with HIV disease. The narratives were classified into types as suggested by Frank (1995). We coded the data for 1) restitution narratives, 2) chaos narratives and 3) quest narratives, and for dominant themes. Findings suggest that specific guidelines need to be developed for nursing education related to HIV disease and aging, and assessment of elders in nursing practice, especially for those living with HIV disease who are over fifty. In addition, we suggest a model for health care providers that will strengthen the assessment of risk factors associated with HIV in the over fifty.This research was funded by the Sanford Center for Aging, UNR.