HIV and Aids

Not just a young person's problem

Although most awareness marketing and general information will focus on younger people, it is absolutely essential for older people to be conscious of the threat of sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV and AIDS. This is why we have decided to put together information specifically for seniors.

Sexual Health

There are many conditions that affect seniors when it comes to their overall sexual health. Many sexually transmitted diseases often go undetected during routine physicals, and are consequently left untreated. One of the most common includes HIV, which many people over the age of retirement may not be knowledgeable on. This is why it is absolutely vital for older people (as well as younger people) to get to their doctors for STD and HIV testing. It’s the only way to truly know for sure that you and your partner are free from the disease, as well as other STDs.

HIV Testing and HIV Symptoms

The first and most common test for HIV is referred to as an antibody test, also known as Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay test. This is the most accurate way of knowing if you have been infected with the HIV virus, which causes AIDS. The other types of tests that are frequently administered include antigen tests and PCR tests.

When it comes to the symptoms of HIV and AIDS, this disease is unlike many other serious conditions. First off, many people who are living with HIV will not experience any noticeable symptoms. For this reason the disease cannot be diagnosed by symptoms alone. The only symptom that is noticeable is damage to the immune system, and even this is not always apparent or is easily written off.

Although HIV and STDs are more common in younger people, they are also something that can effect an older demographic, who may not be as well educated on safe sex practices. This is why it is extremely important for older men and women to get tested regularly for sexually transmitted diseases, so they can ensure their safety and health as well as that of their partner.

If you have any more questions about STDs, symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases and sexual health, it is always best to consult a medical professional.