Health and cultural determinants of voluntary HIV testing and counseling among middle-aged and older Latina women
Craig, S. L., Beaulaurier, R. L., Newman, F. L., De La Rosa, M & Brennan, D. (2012). Health and cultural determinants of voluntary HIV counseling and testing for middle-aged and older Latina Women. Journal of Women and Aging, 24(2), 97–112. https://doi.org/10.1080/08952841.2012.639650
Highlights
Background
1 out of every 4 people with HIV/AIDS is over age 50, and compared to Whites, the rates of HIV among Hispanics 50 years and older is 5 times as high.
It is important to understand factors that impact this population’s use of voluntary HIV counseling and testing (VCT) services.
Middle-aged and older Latinas can be described as a hidden population, due to (a) lack of recognition by providers, (b) little empirical research, and (d) increased rates of HIV infection.
The Anderson Behavioral Model provides a conceptual framework to understand service access, such as voluntary counseling and testing through characteristics, and enabling factors.
Study Description
This study describes correlates of HIV VCT using structural equation modeling techniques for a sample of 135 middle-aged and middle-aged and older Latinas (Mage = 55.32, SDage = 8.15) in South Florida.
Demographics: 87% born outside of U.S.; 64% divorced, separated, or widowed; 65% had very low incomes of < $15,000 per year
Key findings
60% of middle-aged and older Latinas reported VCT.
Although Spanish proficiency was critical to VCT, nativity was not significantly related to VCT.
Provider endorsement (VCT suggested or referred by a physician or health/mental health provider) was found to be the strongest predictor of VCT (odds ratio [OR] = 6.38), followed by having a clinic as a regular source of healthcare (OR = 3.88).
Findings suggest that all providers should be trained to encourage and normalize VCT for all populations as they may to be aware of their risks (eg partners extramarital sexual activity).
The most efficient method to address those that are not acquiring testing is the continued push for routine VCT integrated into comprehensive healthcare services.
