Citation

Vance DE, Struzick T, Childs G. J. Gerontol. Soc. Work 2010; 53(2): 159-175.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2010, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/01634370903415692

PMID

20094935

Abstract

As the number of older adults with HIV/AIDS increases, new challenges are emerging that threaten their ability to age with this disease. Threats of particular concern are depression and suicidal ideation. Studies show that those aging with HIV/AIDS have a number of stressors that tax their coping mechanisms, increasing vulnerability to depression and suicidal ideation. These stressors can be categorized into three areas. First, there are psychosocial stressors that can contribute to depression. Second, there are health and biochemical stressors that can contribute to depression, as well as compromise cognitive abilities needed to adapt to such stressors. Third, cognitive stressors may create predispositions to depression. In particular, certain cognitive abilities needed to cope with depression and suicidal ideation may be compromised by aging with HIV/AIDS. A model of these stressors is provided for didactic purposes, as well as to suggest implications for social work practice and research.

Language: en

Keywords

Humans; Adult; Social Work; Suicide, Attempted; Aging; HIV Infections; Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome; Depressive Disorder, Major; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy