HIV And The “Older” Population

	Jeanine Reilly (left) and Karen Johnson (right)- LaRussa RN,BS from theCity of East Orange Department of Health and Human Services from the event

Listen

Jeanine Reilly, Executive Director of Broadway House is on a mission to educate people about HIV/AIDS. But her recent audience probably doesn’t listen to hip hop or wear baggie jeans! They are more likely fans of Elvis Presley and remember felt poodle skirts.

Broadway House is working to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS in an age range that may surprise some people – senior citizens. One of the fastest groups of individuals living with HIV/AIDS are individuals over 50. The reason for this growth is twofold.

One, advances in drug therapies have increased the lifespan of those infected with the HIV virus. People are living longer with HIV/AIDS and turning 50 or 60 having had the disease for many years. But others are contracting the virus much later on in life. AIDS education in our country has typically targeted the young members of our society and elders have been ignored. It is important that this trend be reversed.

Human contact and sexuality is an important aspect of human interaction all throughout life. Prevention education is necessary for everyone in our society if we are going to stem the tide of this epidemic.

In her recent presentation to a group of resident at Vista Village, a senior housing residence in East Orange, Mrs. Reilly spoke frankly to those in attendance. “You need to speak to your partner about HIV and discuss your sexual history with your physician” Reilly advised, “AIDS is not just a disease contracted by wild teens and twenty-something’s, it is a problem for everyone”.

This topic is so important that WBGO radio has done two segments in their weekly radio journal. During December, the month of World AIDS Day, Monica Miller visited Broadway House to interview people living with AIDS who are over fifty. Ms. Miller also accompanied Broadway House staff for the presentation to the seniors. Both of those interviews are available by clicking the listen button at the beginning of this article.

A key component in the fight against AIDS is education for every segment of the population. For more information about Broadway House HIV Education Programs please contact Debbie Freisinger at 973 268-9797 extension 1034.

Broadway House For Continuing Care - 298 Broadway Newark, New Jersey 07104 - (973) 268-9797