Women, Aging, and HIV: Clinical Issues and Management Strategies

Women are living longer with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. The best way to manage the multiple comorbidities and polypharmacy that are a hallmark of HIV-infected individuals has not been studied. We explore incorporating principles of gerontology, particularly multimorbidity and polypharmacy, to optimize the health of HIV-infected women. Multimorbidity and polypharmacy are important issues for HIV-infected women. Incorporating a gerontological approach may optimize outcomes until research provides more definitive answers as to how best to collaborate with HIV-infected women to provide them with optimal care. A case study is used to guide the discussion.