Quality of life, socioeconomic profile, knowledge and attitude toward sexuality from the perspectives of individuals living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus

Abstract

Objectives: to analyze the quality of life of "patients" with Human Immunodeficiency Virus and relate it to their socioeconomic profile, knowledge and attitudes toward sexuality. Method: crosssectional and analytical study with 201 individuals who are 50 years old or older. The Targeted Quality of Life and Aging Sexual Knowledge and Attitudes Scales were applied during interviews. Multiple Linear Regression was used in data analysis. Results: dimensions of quality of life more strongly compromised were disclosure worries (39.0), sexual function (45.9), and financial worries (55.6). Scores concerning knowledge and attitudes toward sexuality were 31.7 and 14.8, respectively. There was significant correlation between attitudes and the domains of overall function, health worries, medication worries, and HIV mastery. Conclusion: guidance concerning how the disease is transmitted, treated and how it progresses, in addition to providing social and psychological support, could minimize the negative effects of the disease on the quality of life of patients living with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus.

Sexuality and childbearing as it is experienced by women living with HIV in Sweden: a lifeworld phenomenological study

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Experiences of living with a sexually transmitted disease: an integrative review

“…Several studies have found that STDs have a negative impact on the perceived quality of life , and satisfaction with life decreases because of the disease . However, resources that promote coping with changes in daily routines can be found.…”

“…It is clear that living with an STD means that one has concerns about tomorrow, and these can manifest as general concerns or concerns related to maintaining finances when living with a long‐term disease . People with an STD have concerns about their family's future , or the STD's visible effects on their body .…”

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“…16 The identification of the PLHA factors that can be modified is fundamental for health decision making, for the implementation of care strategies and for the optimization of the use of resources from the health services, with the aim of improving the well-being of these people. 17 Currently, PLHA's greatest concern is to increase or improve QoL, not related only to the efficacy of life-prolonging treatments, 18 but also in relation to personal and social spheres, which promote social isolation and low self-esteem, hampering the interpersonal relationships. In addition, it requires changes in lifestyle, to better match the treatment with daily routines.…”